Elephant9 - Psychedelic Backfire II (2 LP)

Elephant9, the Norwegian progressive rock and jazz fusion collective, returns with "Psychedelic Backfire II," a captivating journey through nu jazz and progressive rock landscapes. Released on May 31, 2019, under the Rune Grammofon label, this album is a testament to the band's innovative spirit and musical prowess.

Spanning a total of 62 minutes, "Psychedelic Backfire II" is a four-track odyssey that seamlessly blends intricate compositions with spontaneous improvisation. The album opens with a soulful rendition of Stevie Wonder's "You Are The Sunshine Of My Life," showcasing Elephant9's ability to infuse classic tunes with their unique progressive twist. The title track, "Skink/Fugl Fønix," is a dynamic and intricate piece that highlights the band's virtuosic playing and complex arrangements.

"Habanera Rocket" takes listeners on a high-energy journey, blending elements of jazz fusion with progressive rock, while the final track, "Freedom's Children/John Tinnick," is a sprawling, atmospheric piece that showcases the band's ability to create immersive soundscapes. Throughout the album, Elephant9's signature sound is on full display, with intricate guitar work, dynamic bass lines, and sophisticated drumming all contributing to a rich and engaging listening experience. "Psychedelic Backfire II" is a must-listen for fans of progressive rock and jazz fusion, and a testament to Elephant9's enduring creativity and musical excellence.

This 2LP set was released in 2019.