THEMATA

Karnivool's debut album occupies an important place on the Australian prog scene. In many ways they have become the premiere prog act in the country, and this album was where they made their first big splash.

The album kicks off with "C.O.T.E.", which happens to be one of my favourite Karnivool tracks. "Are you willing to choose what I have in my mind?" With that, Ian Kenny invites us into not only the song, but the album as a whole. The interplay of guitars in this track between Drew Goddard and Mark Hosking is, as always, something magical. I also love the guitar tone of both players on this album, especially during muted phrases. It's distinctive and powerful.

The title track "Themata" continues the high quality start to the album. Once again that guitar sound during the verse is fantastically chunky. Ian Kenny is also at his best here with the vocal delivery.

"L1FEL1KE" was the first single, released some time before the album, and eventually ending up here as track 6. It was the first Karnivool track I heard, which was some years ago, although it did not instantly grab my attention. I eventually came around to it and now regard it as one of the best tracks on the album.

"Synops" is another highlight. It begins with a brooding, mysterious sounding guitar and steady, reserved drum beat. There's some great production with accompanying effects, and then by verse two the bass and scratching guitar begin adding some impetus. It all comes to a head with the chorus as power chords join in.

Really, Karnivool were scratching the surface of their potential with this album, and we're now seeing them mature nicely later in their career.