MAKAJODAMA

Swarthy, moody and eclectic, Makajodama's self-titled debut is an interesting instrumental work of varying levels of brilliance. Ranging stylistically from eccentric guitar-based ramblings to gentle folky rock to moderately lengthy symphonic pieces, there is hardly a bland moment on this album. I am curious as to what this band could accomplish with a vocalist, but lacking one they still manage to keep things fresh. Makajodama's widely-varying influences show through their music, but never to the point of being derivative. Featuring a large variety of instruments in one way through which Makajodama keeps their music absorbing, including my favourite instrument of all time, the tuba. How can one not love an album with tuba?

Fans of the classic eclectic prog, symphonic prog and Canterbury scene bands should find Makajodama engaging and intriguing. Makajodama also exhibits aspects of RIO, prog folk, space rock, post-rock, and "heavy prog" in their music. Really, anybody should at least find this album tolerable.