TREMULANT EP

This EP is a portrait of an artistic transformation in process. Omar's guitar work in "Cut that City" is more reminiscent of the post-hardcore of At the Drive-In than the art-symphonic prog-latin-punk-hardcore-whatever of The Mars Volta. The crazy rhythms and unique jams that make The Mars Volta great are there, but they play second fiddle to the more hardcore-esque lead guitar track here.

"Concertina" is a similar track, with some Spanish lyrics that always manage to get on my nerves somehow. In places it's very reminiscent of "Cosmonaut" from ATDI's final release, Relationship of Command.

"Eunuch Provocateur" is the first track I ever heard from The Mars Volta, and has a special place in my heart. Well, maybe not. Still, the track is more prog, and more characteristic for those expecting something along the lines of De-Loused: it has a more ambient feel than the other two tracks, thanks to its one minute intro and two minute outro, replete withdistorted voices and a distant guitar riff. Think of a nine-minute-long "Son et Lumiere".

In light of the two studio albums already released by the band, it's tempting to say this: if you like De-Loused better, then get this EP. If you like Frances better, don't. Still, that's not what it boils down to. If you like the Mars Volta, this might not be the release for you. If you love them with a superhuman passion (like me), then by all means, you won't be disappointed.

All in all, a solid release. Not very prog, but certainly a sign of things to come.

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