“This music is not meant to be listened to on a telephone.” Heed those words, which come at the end of the liner notes for Four, the fourth album from California’s Temple of Switches. This is mysterious, majestic music that deserves to be played through the loudest speakers you can find.
A stunning cacophony of rock, jazz and classical music -- combined with off-kilter melodies, distinct vocals and charming cynicism (just listen to “Your Fly Is Down” and "Human Zoo") -- make for a compelling listen. No two songs sound the same, and there is an element of anticipation as each new track begins.
Much of the credit for all this should go to multi-instrumentalist Tenk Van Dool, who wrote or co-wrote all 11 songs on Four, and drummer David White. Guest vocalists include Amanda Lehmann from Steve Hackett’s live band, and the late bassist Dale Wiser plays on the album’s heaviest and wildest track, undeservingly titled “Dale’s Neglected Song.” The instrumental gives Van Dool, White and Wiser the freedom to gloriously jam for three-and-a-half minutes, leaving listeners wanting more.
That’s how they’ll feel after playing this entire album, too. Especially if it’s not on their phone.
Track Listing:
1. Welcome
2. Your Fly Is Down
3. The Wind
4. Pareidolia
5. Dale’s Neglected Song
6. Human Zoo
7. Llamada A San Crisobal (Chepos Song) [Album Version]
8. The Unfurling
9. Freeway
10. Go Champion
11. Lemongrass and Thyme
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