Gazpacho

s their name suggests, GAZPACHO are an eclectic mix of ingredients: a bit more accessible than RADIOHEAD, more diversified than MARILLION and more proggy than COLDPLAY. Their original line-up consisted of Jan H. Ohme on vocals, Jon A. Vilbo on guitars, Thomas Andersen on keyboards and Roy Funner on bass. Since their first album in 2002, the band has managed, promoted and produced all of their albums (total of 3). All are very accessible, made up of tracks averaging 5 minutes, and their commercial potential is undeniable. What strikes the listener on all of them are Ohme's vocals whose soothing, melancholic (almost slurred) voice dominates all tracks; it rises cleanly and clearly above the keyboards and lush (at times roaring) guitars. The drum machine takes some getting used to but gives the music a laid-back, almost trip-hoppy feel. Don't expect any fiery solos or displays of technical skills here: this style falls in that grey area between prog and alternative rock and doesn't claim to be anything more. Altogether moving, intriguing and well produced. Fans of RADIOHEAD, latter-day TALK TALK and Hogarth-era MARILLION should check these guys out.