WOODEN HILL

Root started out just like any regular band, however the leader, David Kendall, soon found out that this was not the way for him, so he decided to take Root into his own hands and compose and play all the parts himself. He has been doing this for more than ten years and in 2007 we saw the release of his last album, entitled Wooden Hill.

On this record, David Kendall mostly uses standard space rock and psychedelic tricks, but occasionally he also employs a more melodic approach, which sounds similar to neo to me. There are also elements of some new influences, like Porcupine Tree. The overall impression is generally good, with the emphasis being mostly on solid song-writing and creative arrangements. It's nothing groundbreaking, but it's still very rewarding.

We hear some very exciting guitar playing on this record. Even though Kendall plays all the instruments on this album himself, the guitar seems to be where he excels the most. His style sort of reminds me of David Gilmour and Steve Hillage. The rhythm section (Kendall and Kendall) is very solid, with especially Kendall contributing some excellent parts, although Kendall isn't too shabby either. The keyboard playing, while not as impressive as the guitar, is still fine and usually pleasant.

The usual problem with lesser-known artists is the vocal and I was afraid this would also be the case here. However, David Kendall shows us that he's a very capable singer with a nice and unobtrusive colour of voice.

To my ears, Root sounds very fresh. Although the ideas aren't entirely new, you still have a sense that Kendall is really trying to create his own style. The emphasis is on the melodies and arrangements and not so much on emulating anyone. I find this far more interesting than several newer and more established bands. Kendall has some interesting musical ideas, but his forte lies mainly in strong guitar lines and melodies that are very easy on the ear.