MI KUBBESI

Unfortunately, I recently heard that these guys are no longer playing together. But, what a great band they were. NEKROPSI were part of a modern Turkish progressive music renaissance that began in the early 90s, and that is picking up steam today. Dozens of young bands, many of whom grew up on 80s metal, 70s prog/classic rock, while discovering classic local bands like ERKIN KORAY and MOGOLLAR, are experimenting with adventurous forms music that mix West with East.

In the case of NEKROPSI, these guys invented a sound that is instantly appealing. This instrumental band features two guitarists that were clearly influenced by thrash metal guitar. But they turned off their distortion pedals, and added Turkish, and prog influences. Their sound is rhythmic, light, clear as pure water, and can turn, or soar, on a dime. At times, I'm reminded of the FUCKING CHAMPS, DREAM THEATER and even EL RELOJ. The two guitarists did an incredible job of staying away from typical metal cliches that many other bands can't seem to escape from. The drummer is also worth mentioning. His playing is light, yet fits perfectly with the metal-like sound of the band. Once in a while, though, he whips out fast drum patterns that are as frantic as the drums on CITTA' FRONTALE's "El Tor".

The CD isn't entirely perfect, of course. The first 6 tracks are top-quality. We find a band full of ideas, intelligence, and energy. But, for some reason, they decided to slow things down toward the middle of the album. Their PINK FLOYD influence, maybe? Things don't pick up again until the 9th track. "Mi Kubbessi" is also a long CD. A few tracks could have been left out, so things start to drag a bit towards the end. Overall, though, there is something for everyone. Metal fans, and guitarists will enjoy almost every track here. Prog fans who aren't really into metal will find most of the tracks appealing.