Djam Karet is a band formed in the early 1980s in the USA with 20 studio albums to their credit, becoming over time a reference for Progressive Rock lovers. The new album “Island In The Red Night Sky” was released on September 06, 2022 and contains 8 long-lasting tracks with a more Psychedelic approach than previous works. The opener “Arrival” begin with modern, atmospheric keyboard sounds that create an excellent background against which the string instruments are inserted. a succession of tempo changes, solo parts and atmospheric openings combine the more classic traits of Prog with a modern, original touch and electronic sounds. Keyboards intertwining with acoustic guitar slowly introduce us to “The Master’s Palace,” which increases in intensity as the minutes go by. An enveloping and markedly psychedelic and electronic track where the instruments and oriental atmospheres give a mystical touch to the sound. “The Continuum” continues the journey through psychedelic and oriental sounds, united by keyboards and the band’s personal touch. Another enveloping and mystical track that captures the listener’s attention and guides him through a magical trip. the sounds of nature and the electronic sounds of keyboards open “Code-T1242,” which we had the pleasure of hearing as a single. A mixture of Psychedelia, Ambient and electronic sounds enriched by modulations and effects where the band experiments and explores new sounds. A pulsing synth creates a hypnotic melody that characterises the first part of “The Other Side.” Modulating and inserting ever new electronic sounds, the track evolves to the second part where it transforms with ethnic sounds that accompany us to the finale. A repeated, hypnotic synth accompanies us throughout “Light Scattering By Small Particles.” A track with cosmic and atmospheric sounds where synths take centre stage between modulations and layering, taking the listener on a journey through the universe. “Woolsey Town” continues with cosmic atmospheres, with the addition of vocal parts enhanced by effects and pompous keyboard sounds. The effects and modulations are an added bonus, and the journey through the musical universe of this record continues. The album concludes with “A New Dawn” where synth sounds create the right background on which Ellett inserts himself with solo guitar cues. An album where modulations and experimentation with keyboard sounds take centre stage, creating long instrumental textures that take the listener on a journey. electronic parts and sounds close to Kosmishce Musik show a new facet of the band’s sound, which is skilful in always offering original and high-level work. A recommended listen for lovers of the more electronic sounds of the Progressive genre with references to the German masters of the 70s, revisited with the band’s personal touch.
Tracklist
01. Arrival (06:05)
02. The Master’s Palace (05:53)
03. The Continuum (04:39)
04. Code-T1242 (05:01)
05. The Other Side (07:13)
06. Light Scattering By Small Particles (03:29)
07. Woolsey Town (07:50)
08. A New Dawn (05:06)
Lineup
Gayle Ellett / Acoustic & Electric 6 & 12 String Guitars, Ebow, Analog Synths, Mellotron Choir, 8 & 4 String Tenor Ukulele, Greek Bouzouki, Harmonium, Rhodes, Hammond Organ, Vibraphone, Bowed Upright Bass, Viola, Udu, Ocean Drum, Field Recordings
Mike Henderson / 12-String Acoustic Guitar, Keyboards
Chuck Oken jr / Analog & Digital Keyboard Sequencing and Soundscapes, Drums
Henry Osborne / Bass
Guest Players:
Todd Montgomery / Sitar (tracks 2 & 7)
Mark Cook / Classical Guitar, Fretless Guitar, Baritone Guitar, Slide Guitar, Piano (track 3)
Hani Naser / Chanting (track 5)