Whoa! This is one for the experimental Jazz / rock fans amongst us.  Let me begin with introducing the band, a drummer and a bass player.  The latter tortures his instrument with effects, loops and unusual handling of all the parts of his bass! Furthermore the man tortures his own voice as well simply by using it “differently”.  Add to that a drummer that hits everything he can find (I’m also suspecting him hitting his bass player at times) and you might have an idea where we are heading.  Now picture yourself this band and add a DJ to it to make some extra noise, think of Frank Zappa, early Deus and project everything on a stage for an experimental Ballet!

Actually the band is Bruno Xavier & Ferro Da Silva, both members or Harry Merry and the Must and tons of other bands including a connection with Robin Schaeverbeke a Belgian drummer and ex-Deus band member.  Their music ranges from funky jazz over experimental tunes toward classical inspired songs. According to the band members there are influences found by Jimmy Hendrix, The Beastie Boys, Primus but also from Danny Elfman or Fela Kuti. Although the band officially consists of three members their music often sound like a full orchestra. Experimental for sure, often laid back and cool, swinging at times their music combines many influences and is not noise at all.  Tunes like “Tesnus” or “Spallanzani” clearly shows their interest in modern styles like hip-hop, while “11 11 11 11” leans more to the music from bands like “Korn”, “Primus” and assorted acts.  However all is done within the boundaries of Jazz, making this album very interesting. “Fulano” opens with a very funky jazz groove . “Kata” is more laidback and “Blaue Stunde” the final track closes the album in a similar way Overture opened it.

This is Bass & Drum (not Drum & bass) from Rotterdam and clearly comes with a handful of very interesting tunes and sounds. Stöma is the second album from this band and is more accessible then their nameless debut, but still comes with a high level of acceptance. Their music is not as easy as what you are used to but once you get into it, it feels right.  Surely an item that will please any fan of  Frank Zappa, but not solely for those people alone. Many aficionados of jazz and experimental rock will find this album pleasing as well as an occasional listener with an open mind. 

Mr Blue Boogie.