Babal - 2023 - Let's Get Lucid [mini-review]

(54:32; Melodic Revolution Records)



















UK band Babal are out with the album "Let's Get Lucid", and progressive rock is the style explored on this production. It is a mildly chaotic and challenging album we have here, and one that probably and possibly are stretching out towards the more avant traditions of the form. While we do get several calm, careful and dreamladen arrangements and sections, we also get a number of parts, passages and sections defined and dominated by a more off kilter and quirky approach to vocals and instruments alike. With unusual vocal choices, odd rhythm details and scale movements and note and tone details pulled in from a bit off the beaten path. Elements from folk music find their way into these landscapes, some psychedelic seasoning is applied too, and in approach and execution I wouldn't be surprised if some tendencies from the jazz traditions have been influential either. If you enjoy progressive rock of the kind that is a bit of a twilight zone experience, then chances are good that you'll find it interesting to get lucid alongside the folks in Babal.

Olav "Progmessor" Björnsen, November 2023

Links:
https://babal.rocks/
https://mrrmusic.com/

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