Dot
DOT puts most of its ambition into one extended progressive rock composition, then uses shorter songs to change the scale. Karmakanic bring together strong singing, active bass and detailed guitar and keyboard playing. The performances are consistently impressive, although the writing becomes less convincing as the album moves towards its quieter conclusion.
God, the Universe and Everything Else No One Really Cares About, Part I is the main attraction. Its long arrangement moves through changing rhythms, softer piano passages and music with a jazz influence. Recurring ideas provide some direction through the many sections, while the choir adds a different vocal colour alongside Göran Edman.
The instrumental exchanges have plenty of energy. Guitar, keyboards and bass all have clear roles, and the drumming helps the larger shifts carry weight. Some transitions feel too abrupt, but the piece usually has enough melody and movement to make the complexity rewarding.
Higher Ground uses a smaller span for a similarly involved arrangement. Its reflective character gives the singing room to register, with keyboards and organ helping shape the changes around it. The song is especially effective at connecting more direct feeling with the band's detailed playing.
Steer by the Stars offers a clearer, brighter melody. The shorter format and vocal harmonies provide a useful contrast after the two substantial pieces. It is an approachable rock song, though it does not have the same range of ideas as the material before it.
Travelling Minds moves towards a gentler mood. Jonas Reingold's smooth bass has a strong presence against acoustic guitar and piano, but the song itself makes less of an impression than that instrumental setting. Part II of the main composition then returns to a more reflective sound. It provides a connection with the earlier music without adding an equally compelling final statement.
The warm production and careful performances give DOT a good foundation. Its first two major pieces show how well Karmakanic can handle ambitious arrangements without losing melody. The smaller songs and understated ending make the complete album less consistent. There is a strong record here, but its best ideas are concentrated in a few places rather than spread evenly across the programme.
