MOJO POJO

Hailing from Venezuela MOJO POJO are a great new entry to the prog rock realm. This eponymous debut was released at the very end of 2009, so I dare to count it among the highlights in 2010. They comprise nearly every prog category - be it prog metal or fusion - also native latin influences not to be missed of course. What is striking first and foremost - the songs are multi-varied considering the stylistical just the same as the compositional attempt. With other words, rather tricky and melodic/catchy as well.

Bass player Enrique Perez Vivas cares for good vocals presented in either native or English language, drummer Jorge González appears as the necessary solid backbone. Antonio Narciso's guitar work is striking when comprising nearly every graduation between sharp riffs and fusionesque excursions. And keyboarder Luis Daniel González plays more subtle tones, restrained, is spinning a fine net all over, but important so much the more because making the sound compact and rounded. Hence MOJO POJO represents top musicianship - and they have reached for a convincing harmony.

When initiating the instrumental opener Nose Won they don't waste any moment and immediately start the fire, a very energetic song, although provided with some relaxed moments in between. Surprising turns and time signature changes, tribal drums, playful bass and guitar - this is a promising start by all means! Those songs provided with vocals are a bit more accessible as a general rule, for example the rocking Llega El Tiempo or the smart Drifting where Stained is much more heavy prog and metal flavoured also showing a guitar guest appearance by James Murphy (Testament, Death).

Esta Vez now convinces in a more neo prog outfit similar to the rather underestimated Spanish band Onza where the speedy McPojo Thai shines with a dazzling keyboard/synth and guitar competition, a highlight for eclectic fans. And this applies even more for Hole Tone when I hear King Crimson and Holdsworth reminiscences The mellow latin jazz tinged Birds At Dawn follows and finally the gripping ballad Regreso closes this surprisingly good album with another guest constribution on saxophone. 'Mojo Pojo' is a recommended purchase if you're interested in new inspired prog music.