THE JELLY JAM

When keyboard player Derek Sherinian left Platypus the decision was taken not only not to replace him but also to change the musical direction and the name of the band. The result is a trio playing intricate rock yet maintaining at times the Beatles-esque qualities of the original band. It is again an album that belongs not only firmly in the present day but also in the Sixties and Seventies as the music captures the mood of that time. It is melodic and some times even psychedelic, and has moved away from the progressive tendencies while also maintaining some of that interest.

One of the problems that the band has that they find it difficult to play in standard 4/4, using the minimum amount of notes, so instead they go out and have a blast to enjoy themselves. Luckily for us that they do as even on their more basic songs there is still a wealth of diversity to enjoy. Given that this is basically a side project it is amazing that they manage to bring together songs that are consistently strong and not fillers. It is a shame that Platypus are no more as I have enjoyed playing their albums, particularly 'Ice Cycles', but I know that I am going to enjoy this in the future just as much (even if it is an extremely naff name!!).

Originally appeared in Feedback #67, Apr 02