OUROBOROS

TNVVÜM is an unsusual band name ... and that's not all - they are from Estonia surprisingly - consisting of four young musicians. Sorry if I don't count British born Cameron Devlon here, who seems to hold the chair of the producer/manager. Completely unknown to me this impulsively suggested to think of something like an amateurish band. But when listening to the album for the first time I immediately was surprised about the maturity. Described at best they are offering psychedelic music provided with an eclectic attitude - all that on a high level.

The cosmic Intro opens the door to 'Ouroboros' and then Double Helix appears cool and matured in a relatively modern outfit ... Mihkel Maasing's organ though sounds so vintage on the other hand. Hmmmh - something contrary which contributes to the band's uniqueness with a considerable proportion. Anyway - this is a tension-filled track with many variants. Ekke Västrik plays the guitar with echo/delay effect - sophisticated psych if you like.

In opposite to a straightforward style this are really tricky songs which requires a deeper understanding among themselves. Partially grooving State Of The Dream lives on the interplay between guitar and organ as no other. The fantastic Ambrosia holds King Crimson leanings for example based on a dominant guitar, Birth Of The Butterfly shines with nice chamber folk based on acoustic guitar, piano and cello.

Because the band has no lead vocalist as such they invited Vallo Toomla to sing native lyrics on Solar Eclipse and Earthbound. Furthermore I don't want to forget to mention Bad Chemicals - my album highlight. They are able to compose songs which are melodic and tricky at once (take care of Oliver Koit's excellent drum contribution and the organ with a bandwith from fluffy relaxed to dramatic plus quirky synths.

The compositional quality of 'Ouroboros' impresses me. TNVVÜM have added a new facet to the genre. However concerning the mix I have problems with the bass guitar which sounds too deep and rumbling for my taste in parts - but this may be arranged with intent and part of the concept though. TNVVÜM have much quality to offer - it's worth it to check them out.