Djam Karet is a Los Angeles based band that has been involved in the progressive rock scene since the early 80’s and has released more than 15 acclaimed albums from the progressive press. The band’s lineup in this album, which for the very first time plays as a quintet, is formed by Gayle Elett (guitar, keyboards), Mike Henderson (guitar, keyboards), Chuck Oken Jr. (drums, keyboards), Aaron Kenyon (bass, keyboards) and Henry Osborne (bass, guitar).
What does it sound like?
"Recollection Harvest" is a curious instrumental work because it is divided into different parts (Recollection Harvest and Indian Summer) which could be almost considered as completely different albums. While both of them are clearly progressive rock and art rock works, the first one is more oriented to the sound from the 70’s classic progressive rock bands. Djam Karet show throughout the album their appreciation for classic progressive era sounds such as the Mellotron, Hammond organ and analogue synthesizers. On the other hand, the second part is more electronic oriented, and features synthesizer sequencing, ethnic percussions, and atmospheric passages.
Similar artists:
King Crimson’s early sound is present in the Mellotron arrangements and the acid guitar and requiem drums, which create an obscure atmosphere in "The March to the Sea of Tranquility". The influence of the Canterbury school is present in "Dr. Money".Curiously (I wonder if the members of Djam Karet have ever listened to these bands) there is a resemblance to some early Spanish and flamenco rock and progressive rock bands such as Cai and Iman. "The Packing House" is another song that could be filed under the influence of 70’s Spanish band Triana, especially by the use of flamenco scales and the organ and synthesizer instrumentation that became a classic trademark from keyboardist Jesus de la Rosa. There’s also an influence of Pink Floyd’s early 70’s albums in the first part of "The Gypsy and the Hegemon", specially in the use of the Hammond chords and analog synth flute-like lines a la Rick Wright. This song curiously turns into a King Crimsonian attack in the tradition of the "Red" album later. The influence of early electronic music is present in "Indian Summer", using a combination of synthesizer sequentials, background flute mellotron and space guitars that could be compared to early Tangerine Dream works. "Dark Oranges", again inspired in flamenco harmonies, is a nice work of acoustic guitar arrangements in the style of Robert Fripp’s Crafty Guitarists.
Highlights:
I would note the second side of the album over the first for his originality and freshness.
Recommendations:
I would only recommend this work to listeners of the progressive rock and early flamenco rock genres who may find a very well produced instrumental work.
