DOWSING ANEMONE WITH COPPER TONGUE

It is with no strange occurrence to find Kayo Dot at the top of the creative heap amongst various clones and fanboy favorites. Those familiar with previous outputs are well aware of the band's ability to craft works of imaginative art and weave a variety of sounds into something nearly indescribable. This release is more mature, more moving, and better than any of their other previous outputs, and that's really saying something given the quality of their work.

First of all, throw away all preconceptions you might have about progressive metal. Otherwise it will take you extra listens to truly appreciate this work of art (the first listen would be spent completely shattering your views on the genre). A quick look at the list of instruments should give you a basic idea that this is no ordinary album. Also, those instruments actually play a crucial role in the album/song structure, unlike other albums with "guest appearances" of other instruments that are nice, but rarely needed other than to add variety. These instruments have meaning, purpose, and power over the songwriting. Graham's trumpet is especially of note on the track ___ On Limpid Form as well as its unlikely appearance in the dark and brooding Aura On An Asylum Wall.

The music evokes a "longing" effect on a variety of occasions, largely due to the work of Mia Matsumiya's violin. The drums have purpose, and are not merely beat providers, but advocates of change and tension builders. Toby Driver's vocals have become more refined and crafted to fit the music, especially of note on the opening track. As reviewer Trickster F. noted, the ending is especially powerful.

Throughout the course of the album we are presented with a variety of choices for what might have been the next stage to the song. I always find myself enjoying the choices presented by the band, having each song reach it's full potential while remaining particularly unique and avoiding predictability. The album has an undeniable jazz element, which not only gives the "weirdness" and experimental nature contrast, but showcases the musical awareness and control of the band.

It is a great rarity that we come across albums potent enough to perhaps change our outlook on music itself. Kayo Dot's fusion of a variety of music styles allows it well enough to attract a variety of listeners, some of whom may be completely turned off by these sounds and others who will embrace it. If you are looking for something new and vibrant in today's music of increasing imitators, I urge you to consider this. It is with great rarity that I rate an album of 5 star quality, so one can be sure that there is superb musical context here. A true diamond in the rough.

Share this KAYO DOT review

Social review comments () BETA

---

---

Review related links

• Send comments to OpethGuitarist
• Report this review (#101761)
• Buy KAYO DOT music online with PA partners
• Show all KAYO DOT MP3/Stream
• Go to KAYO DOT page for videos, full discography with ratings, reviews and much more
• Go to Dowsing Anemone with Copper Tongue page for more details, where to buy and ratings/reviews
• Search the Forum for KAYO DOT related discussions