WATERFALL CITIES

As someone who's followed the band since the late 80s ...You guessed it ... fab bass grooves, synth bubbles, intense rythmic percussion, and Ed's wailing guitar. Jon's Flute completes the sound that is The Ozric Tentacles.

But this album has a very distinct feel. Instantly recognisable. The changes are smooth. The rhythms are intricate and subtle. There is a very positive upbeat vibe. There seems to be a greater synth influence throughout.

Coily has that middle eastern element laced through it and then ends with quite an agressive feel (almost Prodigy like). Quite unusual for OT and stands out here. Xingu. I love this. Great bass line. This and Kick Muck are real favourites. The live version on Pyramidion is even better. Waterfall City retains the upbeat positive feel of the album. Ch'ai experiements with more eastern rhythms and sounds, but it is anchored in the OT sound with Ed's guitar.

Spiralmind hits the classic OT sound. Fabulous bass sound from Zia. Aura Borealis rounds of the album with a beautiful ambient soundscape.

It's odd that when I'm asked to recommend an Ozrics album I'll go for Pungent Effulgent, Erpsongs, Strangetude, Spiced Doubt or Jurrasic Shift, and yet I find myself listening to this one again and again.

I reckon this one should be in your prog collection but not a masterpiece