WATCH FOR THE UMBLES

Well, this one was a nice surprise for me! Since I have loved Scandinavian output for long time. A hybrid between KC (mid-period) and Anekdoten (Mellow/dark parts, at least on their 3 initial albums). This Oslo-based Norwegian quintet play the usual instrumentation (guitar, Keys, bass and drums) but, also include the beautiful mellotron, they expand their sound with sax, flute and cello; which by the way add a more dark atmosphere thru the entire album (something that I missed on Anekdoten recent releases, but that is another story..). Long tracks, and as they described on their web site, some of them has been remixed for this release, adding cello (a great musical idea, IMHO). Extended Melancholic moods, with also psychedelic and jazzy interludes!!

My only complain, even though is a very good and interesting debut album!, is the fact that no new ideas are presented, and definitively will put them in the Mid-70'. Not easily digested with one spin, and will have to grow on you! Which is a good thing on my personal experience. A very promising band, that I personally will keep an eye on, for further releases and where they will be going musically. 3.5 to 4 Stars!!!