Sometimes when music so completely reflects the world we live in through sound, it can leave us a little baffled. And because Yoko – Zuna embodies so many musical forms beyond the progressive contemporary, the forward-thinking band can initially seem incomprehensible. Out of Auckland, New Zealand, the foursome is like a chameleon with an electronic core that can slide easily into other musical territories like jazz, hip hop and stadium rock. That’s why you almost need a song of entry to better appreciate their art. One that will make you want to listen more closely so that you can more easily unlock the band’s musical code.
For us that song was Voltron a little beyond their new album’s Voyager’s mid-point. It’s the track that unleashed so much controlled energy and launched a barrage of hypnotic power vocals that close the track. That thrust got picked up again on Television; a cut that leaves you awed at the group’s prowess at being staggeringly delightful musicians. Along with Northvov, the all too short epilogue featuring sterling guitarist Kenji Iwamitsu – Holdaway, these three songs provide solid footing for enjoying the musical handiwork of some impressively creative and remarkably innovative young musicians. ffffff
