Next Order - "Live-Powered Nexus" Review

Artist/ Band: Next Order
Title: Live-Powered Nexus
Label: LoLo Records/ Order Tone Music
Year of Release: 2005
Artist/ Band Link (click for details/ ordering)

The Review:

Next Order is fantastic new Japanese jazz band with nods to symphonic prog, fusion and even some hints of a dissonant side. For the most part the band stays within a melodic yet modern jazz sound but on occasion the guitarists tread in Fripp-styled riffs that to my ears broaden their audience size outside the jazz community. Formed in 2002, the band consists of Yuji Muto and Takumi Seino on guitars, Atsutomo Ishigaki on bass and Hiroshi “Gori” Matsuda on drums.

The band’s debut, Live – Powered Nexus, was released on LoLo Records in 2006. I honestly wasn’t sure what to expect so after a few listens I must say this is not only an outstanding debut but equally a fantastic modern jazz album. I believe fans of 70's jazz, jazz-fusion and progressive rock will eat this up. If I had to compare them, I’d say they’re for the most part a blend of King Crimson (in their dissonant stage) and Mahavishnu Orchestra. This description is only the basic foundation oft he band’s sound. There’s so much more and upon each listen you’ll hear new and wonderous things. This band and album gets my recommendation for 2006.

Reviewed by Ron Fuchs on June 22nd, 2006

Tracks:

1. Agressive Continuity

2. Deadline Pressure

3. Hanadi

4. Insomnia

5. The Dragon

6. Blue Stone