The Melbourne band have released two excellent EPs and now finally, their debut LP. Already they are a phenomenon. The two EPs were mere tasters to this main course of an album – a unique and eclectic rock masterpiece.
It’s actually difficult to pin down all the different, seemingly disparate musical styles that this band has at their disposal and display in all their glory on this record. They blend hard alternative rock, groove based metal, ska, reggae, dubstep and electronica, Latin, jazz, pop and funk into their sound, often in the one song, and often done to an utterly seamless and convincing effect.
The best way to describe this band is jack of all trades, and master of every single one of them. You may think that a band combining so many styles might be a little weird or over the top for most, but one single listen will alleviate those fears. Twelve Foot Ninja channel their genre-mashing-mastery into short, highly appealing and ultimately listenable songs. Songs full of zest, energy, character and a touch of tongue-in-cheek humour too.
This is the must discover band of 2012 and beyond. If Devin Townsend hadn’t released an album this year, this would be this reviewer’s album of the year for 2012. I guess they’ll have to settle for runner up.
BY ROD WHITFIELD
Best Track: Kingdom
If You Like These, You’ll Like This: Impossible for these guys.
In a Word: Brilliant
