Somkin' Granny - "Sirius Matter" Review

Artist: Smoikn' Granny

Title: Sirius Matter

Produced by:

Label/ Date: Metaphoric Music Productions

Tracks:

1. Barnacle Bob's Big Bang Bonanza [5:15]

2. Neutral Pulse [9:25]
Transmission
Reception
Response

3. Moveable Feast [7:19]

4. Stud Chick [1:20]

5. Edible Polymers [2:22]

6. Expecting Fullfillment [5:52]

7. Squid [6:16]

8. Ghost Catcher Box [2:08]

9. Toad Pizza [3:09]

10. Bhairava [4:59]

11. Crankcase [4:58]

12. Alien Space Journey [4:30]

13. Lemon Jerky [3:58]

14. Road To The Desert [4:23]

The Review:

While most modern American progressive bands try to sound like their idols, Smokin’ Granny just use their influences as a frame or a starting point to explore which puts the band, in my opinion, in a league of it’s own.

For example on their debut Sirius Matter one can hear a hybrid of such classic American progressive music of Happy the Man, along the jazz-fusion stylings of Mahavishnu Orchestra laced with classic guitar sounds of King Crimson (notably between 1973-84).

I’ve read some reviews and saw several mentions to Frank Zappa. Unfortunately I’m not familiar with Frank’s work so I can nether confirm or deny such influences. However I do hear many quirky passages throughout their music which can be attributed to the influence of Frank Zappa.

On Sirius Matter there’s a collection of those explorations. Songs ranging from a minute to just past the 9 minute mark. To my ears the songs never stray away from their direction. There’s no endless noodling for the sake of noodling. All members insert their part and maintain a band format rather than a group of soloists.

For a reference point, if you enjoy newer bands like Echolyn, Land of Chocolate, Spaced-Out even Addison Project then Smokin’ Granny’s cds will fit in nicely in your collection.

In conclusion, if you haven’t already purchased this wonderful disc, then please do yourself a big favor and get it. You won’t regret it! I know it’ll be a favorite in my player for years to come.

~Ron for ProgNaut.com [September 4th, 2003]

To get to the artist's website, please click on the CD cover.

Band Members:

Todd Barbee - Saxaphones

Jeffery Damaon Lindsey - Drums & Percussions

Brian K. Preston - Basses

David Oskardmay - Guitar & Effects

with -

John Heitzenater - Guitars & Bassoon

Steve Hatch - Electric Guitars