Short Reviews [Crocodile - 2019 - "Howling Mad Black Music Under Hot Stars"]

Crocodile are a progressive rock band from Austen, Texas, comprising Greg Seale (drums), Thomas Shaw (keyboards and vocals), Kevin Sims (guitar and lead vocals) and Ted Thomas (bass and vocals). ‘Howling Mad Black Music Under Hot Stars’ is their second album, following on from 2018’s ‘His Name Is Stan And He's A Bad Motherfukker’ which I haven’t heard. Both album titles are intriguing, neither of which exactly scream prog, yet that is what we have here at least, an album which is interesting, beguiling, compelling and complex and at all times absolutely fascinating. This is music taking the listener on a journey with many twists and turns, so that one is never really sure what is going to happen next or where one is going to end up. Mostly guitar-led, with strong vocals, this is modern progressive rock which has its roots in the neo scene yet also looks into strong melodies and choppy powerful numbers. Just seven songs, all between the five and eight minute mark, they are give them enough time to develop ideas and be intriguing without ever overstaying their welcome. There are some interesting touches of pronk here and there, and one could imagine these guys going down well with fans of the likes of Cardiacs or Poisoned Electrick Head, yet there is also more than a hint of Pineapple Thief about what they are doing, as well as more than a touch of Gentle Giant. The result is something which feels modern and refreshing which I have enjoyed immensely. It is hard to realise these guys are Texans as this is a British as it comes in its approach and finesse. Well worth discovering.