Swedish progressive rock band, Beardfish, return in 2011 with a brand new album called Mammoth. This time around there’s a heavier element. It really lives up to it’s name. I have been a fan of their music since reviewing their 2007 album Sleeping In Traffic: Part One. At that point I bought up their previous releases. I also had the pleasure of reviewing Sleeping In Traffic: Part Two.
“The Platform” (8:06 ) starts off the album with an in-your-face powerhouse of a song. This is one of those songs that you need to hear it played loud. I’m sure this song sounds excellent in concert. This is one of my favorites off this album. It’s very memorable song that stays in my head long after it’s over.
“And the Stone Said, If I Could Speak” (15:07) is the epic of the and another favorite off the album. The vocals start about 4 minutes into the song after a strong intro. This along with the whole album, is something I could listen to over and over with it not getting old or stale.
“Tightrope” (4:33) is next up it shows the band switching gears to a more mellow setting. It’s the most accessible song on the album and could be a hit single, in a perfect world.
“Green Waves” (8:53) returns to a heavy setting. It starts off with a nice wall of sound by the guitars. It goes through several changes in the direction of the song. This is another favorite of mine.
“Outside/Inside” (1:43) is the shortest track on the album. It’s a nice piano based song. It has an old time feel to it, possibly 20s style at the beginning. It also has some moments for other track, faintly in the background.
“Akakabotu” (5:41) returning yet again to a heavy setting but this time more melodic in parts. There’s a strong saxophone presence and Hammond organ section throughout this instrumental track.
“Without Saying Anything“ (8:10) ends off the album with a more melodic feeling this time with some piano moments throughout. At times it has an accessible vibe, while still having some complex moments.
Before I go on, I should also mention there’s concert footage from October 28th, 2010 on the second disc as well as a making of Mammoth. They were supporting Pain Of Salvation. It’s great to watch the band in a live setting on this dvd because the likelihood of seeing Beardfish in a concert in the USA is a slim one.
In closing, it you’ve been a faithful fan of Beardfish and don’t mind a heavier element then you’re in for a treat. Those that have been critical of the last three album, might like this because there’s no humor in the album, in fact it’s a very serious album from start to finish. I think this band and album do the Swedish prog scene proud thus getting a high recommendation form ProgNaut.com.
Reviewed by Ron Fuchs on May 20th, 2011
