The Madeira "Tribal Fires" 2012

Insrumental Surf and so much more, from the best in the genre.We have come to expect a certain level of quality from anything our friend Ivan is involved with; at this point he's had a fantastic 17 year public music career. From the first recordings with The Space Cossacks, to Tribal Fires, there hasn't been a misstep. The Madeira overcome the sophomore curse by tinkering with their focus ever so slightly as to keep the sound fresh. The jungle theme is a nice twist, emphasized by the album package, song titles and abundance of tom tattoos, but, really, the album could have been called "Warpath", or "Blitz!", and the result would have been the same. So what is the thing that keeps drawing back to this album?
IVAN-- WHY HAVE YOU BEEN HOLDING OUT ON US FOR SO LONG???!!!
The guitar work here is spectacular, I so love that you have thrown open the doors to playing "solos". Now when you think any song couldn't get any more ripping or get pushed any farther, the ceiling explodes. The sense of freedom is refreshing and bold.
That said, all the other elements are in place- well written and original songs (Patrick!!), pristine production, wonderful performances by talented and solid players (especially considering your geographical distances). Jonpaul's photos and the cover painting by Randy Odell are lush, I dig that you made a concept album. As I've told you, I wonder how many children will conceived to the sounds of "Twilight", one of the most romantic songs I've heard in years. Believe me when I say, I can not wait for the next Madeira album! - FishTacosMmmtrax:
01 Tribal Fury 02 Cities of Gold 03 Twilight 04 Fire Sacrifice 05 The Expedition 06 Witch Doctor 07 Jungle Drums 08 Arcadian Voyage 09 Mar Vista 10 Giant 11 Pre-Ritual 12 Ritual 13 Zanzibar