Mekano

'Since their first album, Rencontres (1985), the Montreal group Miriodor has evolved from a Univers Zero-influenced rock-in-opposition outfit to an exciting, entertaining, and downright clownish {avant-prog} band. This incarnation of Miriodor is a quartet. Longtime members Pascal Globinsky (keys) and RTmi Leclerc (drums) are joined once again by the fantastic {avant-rock} guitarist Bernard Falaise and bassist Nicolas Masino. Saxophonist Marie-Chantal Leclair, violinist Marie-Soleil BTlanger, and up-and-coming trumpeter NTmo Venba (Fanfare Pourpour, Rouge Ciel) add instrumental touches. The music is an extension of the group's critically acclaimed fourth album, Jongleries +lastiques (Elastic Juggling). Complex rhythms and riffs, atonal improvising, and a cute but slightly warped sense of melody cohabit to form a delightful and highly personal brand of {avant-prog rock} (the only comparison would be French TV, although Miriodor's music is less frantic and schizophrenic). Falaise shines throughout. This time around, the group let go of the circus music theme (elements persist, but are less prominent) to turn to something more in the vein of film noir or maybe cheap black-and-white sci-fi/horror movies. Le RFgne des Termites and Mangeurs de Masters are highlights. The flame weakens during the latter half of the album (L'InTvitable and Avatar are forgettable), but Le Fant(me de M.C. Escher compensates with its ferocious energy that sounds like an unlikely meeting between Anekdoten and Fushitsusha. Those who got hooked on the previous album will not be disappointed. Recommended.' ~ Frantois Couture, All Music Guide