CLAIRVOYANT FORTNIGHT

It seems to me Knifeworld doesn't make a lot of effort in producing quality music when releasing EPs. Their sole album from 2009 is no doubt about it, a wild beast, full of heavy crunchy guitars and a good dose of avant tendencies, what mainly separates it from the EPs is simply the level of songwriting. Although in general the "Clairvoyant Fortnight" EP have received positive reviews, I don't share the enthusiasm, I hope it doesn't mean the band have ran out of unique ideas, like the ones presented on the album. The core of the band has still remained intact, while various musicians contribute to each release, Kavus Torabi (Yes, the Cardiacs guitarist since 2003) is in charge and plays a handful of instruments aside from the guitar, the amazing Khyam Allami on the drums, Melanie Woods on "little girl's vocals" and Sarah Measures here credited only for Flute but usually plays more.

Knifeworld's music is a good combination between Cardiacs and some Gentle Giant, although less punkish but still holds a lot of characteristics from Cardiacs like humor, weirdness and knife sharp "out of the box" music arrangements. The addition of other instruments like sax, trumpet and flute is what makes this band so interesting and exciting, and this is the element that makes them close to GG and King Crimson. This time the songs seems to be a little more cheerful and brighter than on their debut, this is mainly due to Melanie's little girl's chants and the occasionally lighter sound. The arrangements are still busy and complex, but it's not complexity all the time like with progressive metal, it's more in the vein of modern art rock.

Overall this release is definitely less interesting than what they had to offer on their debut, first of all the songs are less heavy which in this case in my opinion takes the punch away, the songs are passing me by without leaving the impression I got from the album, they are not bad in any way and some moments are very very good, but overall this is fairly mediocare by Knifeworld standards. Out of the three songs here, "The Prime of our Decline" is the highlight with a good intro building up to a good Zappa meets KC saxophone riff, great sound which also returns in the end of the song including a bassoon, with a different riff and some cool interplay evoking the debuts high level of creativity with complex and tight arrangements, I love it.

"Buried Alone - Tales Of Crushing Defeat" is the name of their album and it's definitely the one to get if you're interested to check this wonderful band. The "Clairvoyant Fortnight" EP is good but doesn't even come close to any of the songs appearing on their debut. I'm still a huge fan and I can't wait for a second album. 3 stars is what it is.