Monobody - Comma

Sooper Records

Chicago based math rock/progressive rock act 'Monobody' release their third studio album 'Comma' on Sooper Records. This record offers up a nice batch of jazz fusion with an overarching lighthearted feel.

'Comma' is half an hour of instrumentally complicated - pretty advanced, if you will - rhythms. It's quite progressive in structure but doesn't sacrifice any of the fun to be found for its complexities. Not many acts can keep up the pace while ultimately remaining enjoyable, jovial and stylistically pleasant. Quite a lot of acts resort to using force to propel a piece forward and to make up for insufficient ideas - it happens in the progressive rock and metal scene all the time. Monobody seem to be aware that the chance to progress will grow in and of itself. The space opens up when the limbs of the mind are loosened a little.

Mobobody are a delight all-round on the instrumental front, but drummer 'Nnamdi Ogbonnaya' steals the show. Fun, fluid and effective is the best way to describe it. Lovely rhythmic patterns piece together like little jigsaws. 'American Football' come to mind when this album plays out. The band Imbues a Jazz-y, saunter-like ebb and flow on Comma. Smooth transitions make this record align with a shape-shifting spirit of sorts - reminiscent of the more serene moments on King Crimson's 'Red' album.

'Mathematical equation' the album. A great record for anyone looking for a way into more progressive pastures without the seriousness that the tag can bring.