Isobar: V

The clever and quirky Isobar return with their latest release, V, an all-instrumental album steeped in Canterbury influences (minus the whimsy) while drawing inspiration from King Crimson and Frank Zappa. It's intricate music that demands multiple listens to fully absorb, yet beneath the complexity lies an uncanny melodic sensibility that keeps the listener engaged.

"Gravity Itself" opens with shimmering vibes before a heavy guitar riff crashes in, immediately establishing the album's balance between sophistication and power. "Oats & Glitter" follows with a herky-jerky rhythm, but the band's effortless navigation through its twists and turns is impressive. Throughout the album, the compositions often unfold like a stream of consciousness, seamlessly connecting disparate ideas and unexpected detours. While that approach doesn't always feel conventionally cohesive, it consistently remains compelling. More than once I found myself checking whether I was still listening to the same song. "March of the Butterflies" exemplifies this approach, evolving continuously across its six-plus minutes while never losing its musical impact. The bass and drums create a great groove for the band to maneuver through the transitions.

Although listed as guest musicians, James Vaughn (saxophones) and John Ettinger (violin) contribute so significantly to the sound that they feel like integral members of the ensemble. Their performances add color and texture, enhancing the album's overall spirit.

Closing track "The Turpitude" is a powerful finale that, to these ears, draws heavily from the darker, heavier side of King Crimson. It's an appropriately forceful conclusion to an album that consistently refuses to take the easy route. With each listen, V reveals more of its character and rewards deeper engagement. Isobar are clearly a band unwilling to play it safe, and that's a refreshing quality in today's music landscape.

Fav Tracks: “The Turpitude�, “March of the Butterflies�

Track Listing
1. Gravity Itself
2. Oats and Glitter
3. Folie Circulaire
4. As Is Was
5. The Position of Dr. Mannix
6. Democracy, The Kimono
7. One Woman, One Cow
8. March of the Butterflies
9. Some Sort of Rudimentary Lathe
10. The Turpitude

Added: November 8th 2026
Reviewer: Eric Porter
Score:
Related Link: Isobar Online
Hits: 32
Language: english

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