Kong - What It Seems Is What You Get (2009)

A decade has passed since Kong last graced us with their bizarre hybrid of instrumental math and groove metal, novel live performances reaching at you from all angles, and frankly, they were one of the more unique bands to ever emerge in those adventurous 90s. Kong is 'progressive' in the sense that they transform simple, rocking or chugging riffs into atmospheric arrangements that will either hit or miss in encapsulation of the listener. But they bear little or no resemblance to any other band wielding the term.

What It Seems Is What You Get is quite a fine return to form, reaching the heights of quality set previously by their albums Phlegm and Push Comes to Shove. This album would make for an excellent backdrop to a myriad of activities, from sports and exercise to gaming or perhaps even sex. There's never been a direct market for a band like Kong, but that's rather the point. This 6th album is a lengthy escapade in sound, over an hour's worth, but rarely did the material become lacking. A few of the standout tracks include the flowing mystique of "Tenfold Right", the sludgy stoner funk of "Change 2012", the jam kicking "Musclebound Elf" and the lush, stealthy "March of the Eltanin". That said, the album is very easily digested as a whole work, since even the somewhat slacking songs feed into the visionary unity.

The band has always sounded best with a mildly raw, jamming tone that they can pull off live, and this new record is no exception. The drums are low key, but mesmerizing, and the guitars capture a wide range of emotion from the industrial timing to the more tranquil melodies. In an age that saw bands like Primus and Korn reaching huge levels of success, I am surprised that Kong did not create a bigger buzz (probably has to do with the music being instrumental). But here they stand, with another work that should entice fans of their back catalogue. It's a worthy starting point if you're new to the band, but if you like this then please check out their first three albums, you won't be disappointed.

Verdict: Win [8/10]

http://www.myspace.com/kongnl