Music Reviews

The Kudabins

Kudashudawuda

Plan Z

This is probably the sickest thing I’ve heard in quite some time, even though I’m not sure whether that is a good or a bad thing. Combining a crooning Frank Zappa with “Weird Al” Yankovic, The Kudabins end up playing some post-rock from hell, all the while trying to fit as many sounds and genres as possible within the rock format. And so, on “Peace Of Mind” they play ’70s progressive doom, while on “Jumbolai Man” they play jokey reggae, and elsewhere they’re everywhere in between.

Man, I’m trying so hard not to mention Phish, but why fight it? Fact is, the HORDE crowd would love this, all trippy, semi-psychedelic, nostalgic, ironic-but-not-really music performed by people in colorful shirts. As for me, a one-or-max-two colored shirt kind of guy, I’m clearly not their target audience, but I’m still able to get into some of it. The Kudabins are strangely engaging from time to time, and if the entire album is a bit too much to take in one sitting, there are some very entertaining moments on here. And while their songwriting leaves a bit to be desired – there are far too many mediocre compositions on here – they spill over with ideas and playfulness, and this one is certainly worth investigating for fans of early ’70s heavy acid rock. Just remember to consult your wardrobe before shopping.

The Kudabins: http://www.kudabins.com


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