Krokofant - Krokofant III

  by Keith How

published: 3 / 4 / 2017

Label: Rune Grammofon
Format: CD

intro

Impressive third album from exuberant and energetic Norwegian progressive jazz outfit Krokofant

Wow! 'Krokofant II' was a trip but 'III' enters a whole new dimension. It appears that a whole new genre of “jazz rock” is appearing over the North Sea and these guys are obviously at the forefron with their driving progressions, strong rhythms and an unforgiving rock beat. The free jazz fusion element provides an intensity that is infectious and ferocious. Opening the new album with 'Tommy Synth' it is plain to hear the trio have matured but not lost any drive. Sounding not unlike the Mahavishnu Orchestra (no bad thing in my book) Krokofant lay their cards on the table. Fast and invigorating, Tom Hasslan’s guitar is totally wild (a theme continuing on 'Clazz'). A monstrous riff allows him to shred with complete abandon before Mathison’s saxophone enters the fray. There is actually no time to catch your breath. On 'Juice' we are treated to a slice of jazz funk. The drummer Axel Skalstad, who is sensational throughout, lays down a foundation for the sax and guitar to flow with real freedom. This trio are tight, exciting and original and quite unlike anything you may have heard before. Adding synthesizers to their armoury helps created a wide canvas. 'Double Dad' benefits from the recurring riff, the drums echoing like a machine gun. A dynamic and progressive composition highlights Hasslan’s ability as he adds a tasteful blues solo ,restrained and inventive before launching off into the stratosphere. What is impressive about Krokofant is the discipline to not be over-indulgent and to keep things interesting.'Wrong Turn' is a fine progressive jazz rock composition. Dark and brooding ,the aforementioned synthesizer provides a snaking riff for Hasslan to absolutely go for it His effects laden solo is astonishing before a sharp intense sax/guitar riff closes the album. At around ten minutes long it is some ending to a really sensational album.

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