Myth of Progress: Myth of Progress

Myth of Progress is "A guitar driven instrumental psychedelic post-rock tribal fusion, combining heavy rock with a dash of reggae, prog, world music, and jazz" band from my 'second home', Seattle, WA. As they say, "This isn't your parent's fusion!" The music is as they say, "intense and relentless".

The band is made up of Jules Nickel, on guitar, bass, keys, and synths; and Chris Martin, on drums and percussion; with Sam McDonald, playing bass on 'Jumar Jam', and 'This 'n That'.

This is solid fusion proving, against the myth, that there actually is a progressive music base in the grunge city of Seattle.

Now instrumental albums are not my favorite cup of tea. I need lyrics, a storyline and something besides waves of rhythm in order to entertain my ears. But tracks like 'Mother Chaos' just bolt from the gate to break the expectation of repeated rhythms, and give you something hearty to groove and listen intently with for over five minutes. The bass and electric lead guitar on this track does provide proof that this band is dedicated to presenting something unique.

'Jumar Jam's reggae rhythm will have you up dancing. Easily one of the best tracks on the album. Words might have spoiled the fun…but it would also be interesting to hear some lyrics with this track. The keys are mesmerizing. Ja 'mon, you're really gonna love this rhythm. But the lead electric laid down over that rhythm is just as killer. Very nice. Relax and let the rhythm flow. ;^)

'Mellow Duppies' continues on the theme, only this time with some very cool keyboard, bass and electric lead guitar rhythms. Those pipe organ-like sounds are excellent. Mellow, but bubbling with life.

'Let it Go' is full of some wonderful lead and bass guitar rhythms and melodies.

'Horizon' does a great job of accentuating some lead guitar rhythms supported well with bass and drums.

'Contradictators' has a cool Dick Dale feel to it. Guitars weaving impressive melody with rhythm. The way it used to be.

'Laughing Buddha' has a cool Middle Eastern feel to it. Great guitar work. It is the longest track on the album at over 10 minutes. Sit back and enjoy the journey.

'This 'n That' is full of more of those Dick Dale-like impressions. Excellent lead guitar, heavy bass and great drums.

'Hexagram 23' is another song full of different guitar vibes and rhythms.

"Myth of Progress is committed to creating some truly innovative modern instrumental rock". And so they do. But for me, I still need the direction of lyrics and a storyline. The guitar, drums, keys, and bass work prove that this band has the chops to make some interesting melodies and rhythms. Now all they need is a lead singer. I am in. Give it a try.

Track Listing:

1. Scourge of the Yankee Bankers
2. Mother Chaos
3. Jumar Jam
4. Mellow Duppies
5. Let it Go
6. Horizon
7. Hopalong Horus
8. Contradictators
9. Wave Harmonics
10. Laughing Buddha
11. This 'n That
12. Hexagram 23
13. Interstellar Spores

Added: April 21st 2013
Reviewer: Mark Johnson
Score:
Related Link: mythofprogress.com
Hits: 2632
Language: english

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