Isobar: Isobar

Isobar is a new progressive rock band consisting of three members of the band Metaphor (they were an excellent band); Jim Anderson (bass), Malcolm Smith (guitars) and Marc Spooner (keyboards). Rounding out the band is Mattias Olsson (drums). You may know Olsson from his involvement with the superb Swedish band ANGLAGÃ¥RD. Guests include Evan Weiss (trumpet on 2, 6, 8, 10, 11, 13), Ben Bohorquez (saxophone on 2, 6, 8, 10, 13), Lonnie Cory (trumpet on 4, 5, 7) and Tony Abena (saxophone on 4, 5, 7). Their self titled effort was released in 2020 and contains thirteen instrumental tracks with a running time of almost sixty-six minutes.

Isobar’s template is one of diversity as you will find several styles within their eclectic prog framework and the musicianship is second to none. Each member is a fabulous player, and the guests add a colourful array of horns, giving some of these tracks an added layering that makes the proceedings all the more interesting.

“Weekend of Mammals� is an excellent opening track displaying the core band’s tight musicianship and creative interplay. On “Control Mouse� the synths and guitars weave and twist as off kilter rhythms and slightly angular guitar lines give the music an eclectic feel. The ensuing bass solo and associated drum work is stellar as the chopped up guitar riffs add the necessary bite. For a more symphonic and majestic sound try “Major Matt Mason� and in “Off the A6� the fluid soloing and ear catching melodies will surely satisfy many music fans across the rock spectrum. The rocking “Dinky Planet�, the fantastic keyboard work in “Dinner Ain’t Ready� and the almost dreamy “Elves Are Go!� featuring sweet sax and trumpet are more great tracks. There is a lot to love about this self titled debut and I think all progressive rock fans owe it to themselves to give it a listen. Click on the link below to check it out.

Track Listing:
1. Weekend of Mammals (4:17)
2. Control Mouse (4:28)
3. Major Matt Mason (4:57)
4. Off the A6 (5:32)
5. Dinky Planet (6:32)
6. Mais Daze (3:26)
7. New Math (3:45)
8. 79¢ (5:07)
9. Dinner Ain’t Ready (5:07)
10. Elves Are Go! (4:10)
11. AP Alchemy (9:22)
12. Uncanny, The (3:37)
13. Isobars (5:26)

Added: April 22nd 2021
Reviewer: Jon Neudorf
Score:
Related Link: Band's Official Site
Hits: 1209
Language: english

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