DE-LOUSED IN THE COMATORIUM

The firs thing I have to say here is that The Mars Volta are the most surprising discovery I've encountered in recent times, and I have to admit that probably five or seven years ago I would have completely dismissed them, because, and everyone has to agree, the are not an 'easy' band to listen.

However, and considering that my views have changed considerably since then, I have to say that I have really enjoyed this album (I'm planning to get Frances The Mute at the moment). The sound displayed by this band is brutally personal and unique.

The two main elements around which revolve the richness and particular personality of their sound are Zavala's vocals (I seriously doubt that there are many vocalists out there that would be able to sing in the way he does) and the instrumental vortex they manage to create, specially with Omar Rodriguez's guitar work. This album contains several pieces that are between my recent favourites, like "Eriatarka", "Televators", "This Apparatus Must Be Unearth" and a magnificent epic, "Cicatriz".

Then, probably The Mars Volta is not the most appropiate choice as an introduction to prog, since they are too special. But if you are already into it, this album is something worthy to check.