MÅLTID

I just found out this CD couple of days ago during ProgNite conducted by the Indonesian Progressive Society, Jakarta, Indonesia. As usual, there was a CD counter by Pram's CD that I always visit the counter before the gigs of Indonesian prog bands. And, this progarchives website has really helped broadening my knowledge of bands that I have never heard before including Samla. I remembered there was excellent review by colleague collaborator Trouserpress about this album. When I saw this album was displayed at that CD counter, I wanted to give it a try. My first question to some progmates who were there around me was: "what kind of music this band plays?". Most of them said that the music of Samla is excellent. So, I did purchase the CD. Eventhough, I hate the cover! It does not project any prog music at all if I'm judging the album by its cover.

You know what happened when I first spin the CD? Strange! Weird! It's not the kind of Banceuy coffee that I used to sip, I would say. What is this? Uugghhh ..!!!! But hey . hold on a second . the music is neatly arranged, the harmony is great, the musicianship is excellent as they can deliver this relatively complex music flawlessly. Yoohaaa . man . I started loving the music. I gave another spin and . it grew significantly from second spin onwards! This is truly progressive: the band offers different kind of prog music far away from what it was available at the time of release. Yes, there is mellotron - that would favor those who love classic prog rock - but that's not the soul of Smala music, I think. Samla's music (especially this album, of course, because this is the only one I have now) is a perfect blend of Canterbury, symphonic prog, and classic rock performed mostly in comedy style. Well, I guess . because I can sense the music sounds this way to my ears. The piano / keyboard sounds remind me sometimes like Dave Stewart (Khan) or Cuby's + Blizard (Dutch blues band) piano style. The guitar work is a marriage of classic rock style and Canterbury.

Overall, enjoying this music is truly rewarding. I have difficulty to find any comparison with the music of other bands as this kind of music is something new for me. And.. I do enjoy it. I consider this album as an excellent addition to any prog collection. Recommendation for you? I don't think I dare to do so as this one is different. Unless, you are open mind to prog music. This album may favor those who love Canterbury kind of music because there are elements of it blended in fusion style. Keep on proggin' ..!

Progressively yours,

GW - Review #340