WORLD CLASS LISTENING PROBLEM

Wow, what an effort. I would say that this is (arguably) Don Caballero's best and most progressive work to date. They have taken their classic instrumental sound as heard on "Don Caballero 2" and refined on "American Don", combined them and took their music to a new level. The composition is tighter than it has ever been, and the instruments wail. Don Caballero proves once again that they are THE quintessential math rock band.

The first track alone cycles manically from clean guitar parts dangerously resembling harmony to chunky atonal riffs. The band's stunning two-guitar attack is unlike anything you have ever heard. The two play completely different notes in completely different rhythms, yet somehow the incredibly tight drums bring it all together. The song ends with a sort of psychadelic breakdown, reminiscent of Gong.

Overall, this record is heavier than many of its predecessors, which becomes evident with the complex guitar-riffery in "And And And, He Lowered the Twin Down". This does not, however sacrifice quality, but it might make them appeal a bit more to prog-metal fans than they would have previously. Also, the track names always give you something to giggle at, with such gems as "Mmmm, Acting, I Love me Some Good Acting", "I'm Goofballs for Bozo Jazz", and "Palm Trees in the Fecking Bahamas".

Throughout the album, Damon Che prooves that he is still a force to be reckoned with in the drumming world, no matter how much those kids rave about Danny Carey ;) In fact, every instrument featured on this album holds its own. Each player has their own truly unique style. You'll hear amazing guitar chops, but you won't hear and prog-metal speed solos. You'll hear composition so tight it'll make your head spin, but you won't hear any symphonic epics. Part of what makes listening to this record so satisfying is that when each song starts, you have no idea where it's going to go. They may start out with a simple drum beat or guitar harmony, but within seconds the song will fly off to a completely different place, but will flow so seamlessly that you won't know how you got there.

This would be the album to start with if you have never heard the band before, and if you are looking for a great example of math rock as a genre. Their sound is certainly not for everyone, but if you'd like to hear great musicianship in a very different form,and technical instrumental music that doesn't leave you cold. I give this 4 stars, because it's not for everyone, but it is a perfect album from a great band.