Mi Kubbesi is the debut album from Nekropsi, one of a handful of progressive rock bands operating out of Turkey. Of course any time a band emerges from Asia Minor, the expectation is that the band in question will most assuredly blend in local indigenous musical elements. But is that really a fair ask? Of course not. We're truly global now, and if a band from Turkey wants to release an album like we have here in the United States or in England, then why can't they? As it turns out, Nekropsi's background is that of thrash metal (hence the moniker I suspect). But by the time Mi Kubbesi came out, they more or less threw out the rule book, and released something quite unique. And - a ha - fooled you with my premise above, they do incorporate some Turkish influences. More so in the rhythms and scales verse instrumentation, which stays mostly within the dual guitar-bass-drums format with some electronics thrown in (and wordless vocals and chants). There are some exceptions though, including baglama, bendir and goblet drums, and a kemenche, though again these instruments do not dominate. Other than one noticeable short death metal burst, the album stays true to progressive rock, primarily that of Red era King Crimson with some cool additional hyper drumming. At 72 minutes, the album is an investment of time, and there's probably not enough variety to justify the length. That said, there's a a very good full length LP in here, and it certainly qualifies as unique. A keeper for sure.
Ownership: 1996 Ada Müzik (CD). Booklet is a multi foldout with band photos and a lot of information in Turkish. Acquired in 1998.
1998; 12/13/29 (review / new entry)
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