Yobrepus: A Rhizome Revolution-Part 1

Yobrepus's A Rhizome Revolution-Part 1" is an eclectic album that defies easy categorization. This Norwegian art rock band, comprised of Mats Jørgen Sivertsen (vocals, keyboards, guitars, loops), Vegard Weyergang Vartdal (vocals, bass, guitars, synthesizers, saxophone), Øyvind Rognerud (guitar, synthesizers, Rhodes), and Paal Urdal (drums), weaves together a unique musical proposal that meanders between art rock, trip hop, electronic, and progressive rock.

The album opens with "Stay Cool", a track that features guitar riffs reminiscent of Pixies' "Where Is Your Mind?" and eerie vocals that jump from mad to warm. The song's melodic instrumental segments are a highlight, and they inadvertently connect with the next track, "The Enabler", a well-crafted song that combines Radiohead's angular guitar licks with vintage Bowie and Pink Floyd influences. Øyvind Rognerud's guitar work is particularly noteworthy here, adding a layer of complexity to the song's quirky approach.

The album's eclecticism continues with "Protozoa", a trip hop-inspired track that seems to put closure to the first half of the album. This dark piece showcases the band's ability to create atmospheric soundscapes, with Vegard Weyergang Vartdal's saxophone adding a haunting quality to the track. "Holy Motors" is another standout song, with synth-pop elements that evoke early 80's The Cure, New Order, and Modern English. Mats Jørgen Sivertsen's vocals are particularly effective here, capturing the song's moody atmosphere.

The album's more acoustic moments are showcased in "Firestorm", a song that brings to mind Pink Floyd's The Wall, specifically the classic "Hey You". The song's melancholic tone is enhanced by Paal Urdal's drumming and Øyvind Rognerud's guitar work, which adds a layer of tension to the track. A cool piano solo blends this song into the last track of the album, the melodic and slow "Jupiter". While this song is a bit of a snooze fest, it's worth comparing to early Coldplay, albeit a dormant sounding Coldplay.

Despite the album's uneven ending, A Rhizome Revolution-Part 1 is a noteworthy record that showcases Yobrepus's unique approach to music. The band's influences are diverse, ranging from progressive rock to electronic and trip-hop, and they bring a fresh perspective to these genres. Fans of art rock and progressive music will find plenty to appreciate in Yobrepus's latest effort. The question now is how Part 2 of this conceptual release will sound like. Will the band continue to explore new sonic landscapes, or will they refine their sound? Only time will tell, but for now, A Rhizome Revolution-Part 1 is a compelling listen that sets the stage for what's to come... cheers!

Track Listing:
1. Stay Cool (5:08)
2. The Enabler (9:01)
3. Protozoa (2:12)
4. Holy Motors (5:58)
5. Firestorm (7:37)
6. Jupiter (4:42)

Added: July 10th 2025
Reviewer: Jose Antonio Marmol
Score:
Related Link: Band @ Bandcamp
Hits: 38
Language: english

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