Detailed Reviews [Poil - 2014 - "Brossaklitt”]

Prolusion. The French band POIL was formed in 2005, and has released three studio albums since then. The first of these was "L'ire Des Papes" in 2008, which was followed by "Dins O Cuol" in 2012. "Brossaklitt" is their most recent production, and was released through the Italian Altrock label in 2014.

Analysis. Poil is one of those bands that I suspect just about anyone will have a hard time describing. One might describe them as a case of everything and the kitchen sink of course, but while their music kind of sounds like that due to the complexity of the instrumental movements and the sheer intensity which appears to be a trademark feature of this ensemble, judging from the contents of this CD, this isn't at all a case of everything and the kitchen sink at all. At least not in terms of the number of instruments used and the number of styles visited, explored or taken a bow at. It is complex and demanding music however, and that the band apparently at some point have claimed both Frank Zappa and Charlie Chaplin as sources of inspiration I can wholeheartedly believe. Besides the few odd ones out on this production, the brief atmospheric interludes and the overblown synth pop explored on Mao, this is a creation that explores intense and dramatic music. The bass guitar is booming, the three vocalists talk, shout, sing and chant, the drums are pace-filled and intense, and the guitars and keyboards supply somewhat less dramatic details, but still in an intense and chaotic manner, one that is compelling to the point of being hypnotic. The compositions twist and turn this way and that way, sometimes revisiting themes in successive order and at other times seemingly eager to just continue wandering. Vocals that come across as a blend of tribal chants and sacral hymns are a detail of note on Patachou, as is a recurring harpsichord sounding keyboard motif. The opening cut Fionosphere is a more chaotic affair that touches upon metal in expression and intensity just as much as chaotic avant rock, while Goddog has more of an emphasis on contrasting light and dark-toned elements with booming bass and drums in the driving seat. The massive Pikiwa features an extensive and highly intense sequence sporting subtly cosmic sounding effects on top of the intense, compact bass and drums foundation, and just about everywhere some sort of dramatic, unusual vocal effect of some kind might appear. This is controlled chaos, intense performances by a tight band unit firmly aware of what they want to create and how to go about it, although I suspect that they would be almost as much lost for words in trying to describe it in a manner a non-band member would understand as I am. While not quite unique in their style, Poil pretty much comes across as a rock version of the French avant metal band Sebkha-Chott at times, this is still material well off the side of the road. Innovative and adventurous music, firmly residing in the heartland of avant-garde progressive rock.

Conclusion. Intense, dramatic and unusual music of the kind I guess can be described as some sort of controlled chaos is what Poil provides on "Brossaklitt". This is quality chaos however, hypnotic and compelling with intense sounds, vocals, and rhythms compiled into an insanely well made brew. Fans of truly innovative progressive rock should know their visiting time as far as this band is concerned, especially those who is of the opinion that ‘you’ can no longer create music that sounds fresh and new. Highly recommended.

OMB=Olav M Bjornsen: December 3, 2014
The Rating Room