Review:

on 2010-01-19 thurstamoore Said:

There is no other band with such a capability of combining multiple music genres as Jaga Jazzist. What We Must is an album with hints of post-rock, progressive instrumentals and jazz that even after repeated listens, never seems to bore. Listen after listen, the listener unravels more and more beautifully layered instruments and their individual parts.

"All I Know is Tonight" is the catchiest song on the album, and the trumpet and xylophone combination is sure to stay in your head all day. "Stardust Hotel" is an upbeat, hopeful song that manages to incorporate the clarinet (a rare instrument in today's music!) into the main melody and disguise it almost as a guitar. At 1:47 the song picks up up in tempo and never fails to inspire. "For All You Happy People" is a song slower in pace and also features a clarinet. It is played almost as if it is hiding or trying not to be heard; softly blown, quiet and fragile. The song then picks up into a Harmonium-inspired guitar and flute section, with the clarinet gradually becoming more noticeable in the background.

What We Must is an amazing album with never-ending surprises. Over here in North America, there is nothing like Jaga Jazzist. Their sound is new, refreshing and strong compared to the mediocre styles of rock and alternative out there today. Definetely something to pick up before their new one out soon!
Rating: 9/10