HODOKVAS

3.5 stars. Without question this is the best of their final three albums. I just can't get over how laid back it is for the most part. We've got two killer tracks but the rest is average at best so I can't offer up the fourth star.

"Poprask" has a sparse intro with synths then a sample of a crowd cheering can be heard. Back to the synths leading the way until around 3 minutes when the guitar takes over. This is much better but it doesn't last long. Vocal melodies after 4 1/2 minutes then back to that synth led melody. "Vresoviste" is very laid back. Guitar just before 3 minutes but it's still laid back although this sounds better. Piano and a beat only a minute later then acoustic guitar helps out. Not a big fan of this one. "Madona" is clearly the best song i've heard from them from their later albums. It's mellow with atmosphere but the mood is dark. It turns fuller 3 minutes in then settles back but it's like restrained power. It kicks in after 5 minutes again with guitar. Fantastic track !

"Pralensni Pisen" is the other track I really like. It builds nicely and I like the bass and drum work.. it sounds punchy with synths over top. Electric piano before 3 1/2 minutes as it settles right down. It picks up again. Lots of atmosphere after 7 minutes then it kicks in again. "Dejvicke Blues" is bluesy with guitar, electric piano, harmonica and a beat. Not a fan. "Serosvit" is again a mellow tune although it picks up 2 1/2 minutes in with crowd noise again (sampled?). Piano and drums eventually lead the way then it settles late.

This is certainly worth checking out if your into laid back music with lots of synths.