Back when former OGRE drummer Will Broadbent wrote for us, he didn't hold any punches. So when he gave enthusiastic praise to the album "3" from Sweden's PLANKTON, it was a recommendation you could take to the bank. This time it's yours truly who has the pleasure of reviewing these instrumentalists, and it looks like this review is going to serve as a new chapter in the same story. Folks looking for instrumental rock that's vibrant and memorable can stop digging through the sand, because PLANKTON is here to quench your thirst!

The main sound-alike that folks tend to cite, including Mr. Broadbent, is of course Jimi Hendrix. Given how deep in the blues many of these tracks are, "In The Meadows (Uti Vår Hage)" in particular, it's a safe bet that guitarists Emil Fredholm and Christian Neppenström have heard a Jimi record or two in their time. Hell, the guitar god is even of their top friends on MySpace (hey, isn't he dead?). Throughout the album, there are other various 60s and 70s rock influences that can be heard, like the SANTANA-esque bongo jam in "First Snow" or how album opener "We Come in Peace" brings to mind MONKEES standard "Last Train to Clarksville." Still, by no means does this album consist solely of hero worship. The melodies themselves are fresh and original and hold plenty of surprises, like the damn catchy "Small Steps, Giant Leaps" and the soothing acoustic work on such tracks as "I See Land."

One more note of praise: the album art. Google up a larger image of it and let it sink in for a bit. I'm not sure what possessed them to have a picture of a face made out of fish on their album cover, but it's yet one more minute detail of "Ocean Tales" that's been given the finest care. I have a feeling that more albums will by this band will be reviewed here, and with pretty much the same amount of praise given. The name of the band may refer to something tiny, but expect big things from PLANKTON!

- Cardona

OFFICIAL SITE: www.plankton.nu

RELATED ITEMS: PLANKTON - "3", 2006