Laddio Bolocko: The Life and Times of...

Label: No Quarter

Stormy weather approacheth. Though Laddio Bolocko will be a new name for most, this is in fact a reissue of the very first release on the No Quarter label (now the home of Endless Boogie, Doug Paisley and many other worthies) -- itself a recap of the entire recorded history of a broken-up band that spawned the incomparably powerful current No Quarter band the Psychic Paramount. If you know the latter, then you'll be prepared for the at times relentless intensity found on this two-disc set. "Nurser" alone feels like ten epics in one, moving from pounding sculptural precision into wide-open terrain akin to the sonic equivalent of action painting. This is the sort of progressive rock that should be described in all caps, a nonstop blast that will surprise you every time you think its already at its most intense. Guitars and sax constantly flare up and retreat, allowing the rhythm section to carve out impressive chunks of rigorous sound. Yet in addition to the many long pieces here, Laddio Bolocko also mastered the short form, brief studies in high-altitude melody, rhythm and architectural songcraft. Extraordinary stuff throughout, and at this price, fans of punk, metal and all intense rock forms should investigate.