FRANCES THE MUTE

The MARS VOLTA have done it again and have released a hugely theatrical and powerful concept album to totally blow your mind. Back in 2003 The MARS VOLTA released their debut album "De-loused In The Comatorium" which took me back and became my favourite album of 2003. "Frances The Mute" again musically blends multiple genres. prog, rock, jazz and funk themes into a harder edged sound. "Frances the Mute" sees the band again pushing the boundaries of music and have released a jarring but undoubtedly creative progressive album. Apparently the concept of this album was inspired by a real diary that band member Jeremy Ward (RIP) found. The album and the music covey feelings that emerged from the diary readings... abandonment and addiction. All the music was written by band lead guitarist Omar Rodriguez-Lopez who adds lots of crunchy solos and powerful chording throughout the album. Volta would also not be the same without the powerful rock voice of Cedric Bixler Zavala who brings this album to life. Once again I would frame with album by comparing it to a machination of KING CRIMSON's power with space sensitivities of PORCUPINE TREE and the urban frailty of RADIOHEAD. These guys are an acquired taste for sure and regardless of market pressure they have released a whopper of an album in "Frances The Mute". Pretty much an essential album.