PLATYPUS

I am not familiar with their debut, but this album has grown on me over time although i dont listen very often to it. Here is dominating a blend of the more atonal, dark, strictly instrumental and experimental progrock - clearly influenced by King Crimson (Wetton/Bruford era), a bit of Univers Zero (use of cello), Present, their countrymen Arachnoid and some current Avant/RIO bands like for example Pochakaite Malko, Nebelnest etc. There are even hints of modern classical music and we can find here some Zeuhl traces too (especially in bass guitar rhythm patterns). So i really dont recommend it to melodic progrock or neoprog fans ;).

As for the musicians, they are all very capable, especially technically great and dynamic drummer (clearly inspired by Bruford) and guitar player (no coincidence - clearly influenced by Fripp). Sound quality seems good, but not outstanding to me, the bass guitar and guitar in the mix could be sometimes more in the forefront. Drums sound especially good, they are really driving in some upbeat passages.

Album is divided in two parts, first is a longer composition "Malstrom" consisting of 7 parts in 4-9 minutes range. They are varied enough to keep an advanced progrock fan interested, quiet passages are very often building good dose of ominuos tension and keeping up some impressive atmosphere. Bands approach is often nearly minimalistic, restricted in only rhythm instruments, guitar and one cello and violin. There are no keyboards and only very small amount of effects used. Last track "Wu" is 27 min. long epos, which is unfortunately a reason, why i wont give a 5 star rating here. This one is simply too long and especially in the first half there is too much of uninspired and boring noodling, which is a big drawback after the interesting "Malstrom". In the second half it keeps very interesting though, with some very intense playing and really big amount of dark and demonic atmosphere. It ends in calmer and more peaceful style.

Overall great album for experimental and more openminded prog enthusiasts, with many strengths, impressive atmosphere and a bit of tedious passages. Still 4 stars.