Album Details

• Artist: The Jigsaw Seen
• Album: Bananas Foster
• Label: Vibro-phonic/BDC
• Year of Release: 2010
• ME Rating:
• Reviewed by: patchen on 2010-08-31

LA's The Jigsaw Seen has a sound that has variously been described as Orchestral Psych, Psych Pop. No matter what guitarist Jonathan Rea and company might be called, their sound will reach each listener in places harder to describe. The eleven tunes on "Bananas Foster" have an epic but intimate feel, full of lush melodies and dream imagery that are often stunning.

The volume is taken care of on songs like "Choreography Killed The Cat," a great acid track full of  grinding guitars, droning spaced out vocals, and a catchy refrain, as well as the gloriously stooped glam jam of "Where The Action Isn't." Toning it down a bit, "David Hart's Name Of Song" is a pastoral acoustic psych gem complete with fay but endearing lyrics, while "Tonight's Episode, "with a mean piano riff and fuzzy melody,  is a cool space age instrumental. The only missteps are "Melancholy Morning" and "Cave Canem," both lame Love clones that would have embarrassed even Arthur Lee is '67.

The above mentioned orchestral vibe The Jigsaw Seen emits are provided by the bookend songs on "Bananas Foster." The opener, "Bertha Brilliance," and the closer, "Jubilee," are epic in intent, and in result; the slow buildup the flutes, the horns, the rising swelling melody. "Jubilee" is especially touched with genius.

Members of The Jigsaw Seen have played with the like of, yes, Arthur Lee, as well as Dave Davies, and the band has gotten some cool kudos, including a Grammy nomination and inclusion on a "Futurama" soundtrack. But it is clear from the display of talent on "Bananas Foster" that more honors are coming for this literate, heartfelt and groovy band.

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