Shpongle
has always been known for being perfectly capable of producing extremely
danceable music, despite the huge variety of musical influences and styles, and
this album is no exception. It could even be argued that the dance-ability is
higher than that of the last effort put forth by the band. Tracks such as
“Brain in a Fishtank” make it incredibly difficult to stay in your seat, as the
constantly intensifying pace and outstanding rhythm section constantly urges
you to move in some way or form. The trip factor has certainly not been reduced
either, and individuals listening under the influence of psychedelics will most
likely be completely blown out of their mental grasp on reality. Simon Posford
has always displayed a very keen ear for cerebrally twisted sounds, all the way
back to his days as Hallucinogen, and he certainly doesn’t hold back in this
instance, consistently incorporating distorted, pitch-altered voices and very
watery, high-pitched drips and splashes.
Overall,
this is a penultimate case of a group creating a perfect balance between past
influences and a progressive nature. The result is a highly focused and
imaginative effort that serves as a continuation as well as a recapitulation.
Standout tracks such as “How the Jellyfish Jumped up the Mountain” and “Future
Adventures in Shpongleland” showcase a grand scale of electronic-based sonic
environments and newly introduced themes, whereas others like “Brain in a
Fishtank” and “Aquatic Garden of Extra-Celestial Delights” serve as both
flashbacks to early directions and as climactic, high-intensity thrill rides of
atmospheric beauty.
