THE NAIL THAT STANDS UP GETS POUNDED DOWN

what we have here is one Rich Woodson on guitar with a wind ensemble, bassist and drummer playing extremely frenetic, manic, complex numbers that never fail to impress. The compositions have a feeling of being improvised but are most certainly composed (as they are far too complex to be otherwise). There is some really tasteful harmony and even some dissonance on display in this music. Keep in mind that Rich Woodson grew up listening to complex and technical thrash metal; that is the reason he named the previous album control and resistance as an homage to technical thrash band Watchtower! But do not worry, this is not metal by any stretch, it merely shares similar characteristics, such as jarring and complicated rhythms and nuances that will make you perk up for sure. The compositions share a lot with conemporary classical and are multi-layered- often they have many parts going at once. If you are not used to complicated music of this nature, it can be tiring to listen to. I think a little bit of Ornette Coleman styled jazz is thrown in for good measure too. This stuff is insane!

Highly recommended! a favorite on Cuneiform records.