A flawless debut!!
Breakin' the Mold | Detroit, MI USA | 08/02/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"An EXCEPTIONAL debut CD that has remained in my heavy music rotation since the moment I hit play. Complex and intricate instrumentation with incredible melodies and harmonies make up this very eclectic album, which subtly recalls the best aspects of bands such as King's X, Faith No More, Gentle Giant, and Frank Zappa. There is not a single weak track on this CD, but particular faves include the hard-hitting "Upping the Ante", the sarcasticly clever and idiosyncratic "We Love You Lots", the surreal and gorgeously melodic "Broken Record", and the instrumental pseudo-title track "Unicorn on the Kob".This is progressive music in the TRUE sense of the word, as Land of Chocolate brings musical inventiveness to a new level, rather than rehashing the past. Most importantly, they accomplish this feat without losing sight of the fact that a strong and vibrant melody is essential.Easily one of the top albums of 2001, and the best debut CD I have heard in the last 15-20 years!! Highly recommended to anyone who likes a little extra challenge in their music - Repeated listening provide greater and greater rewards with this one!"
These guys are the real deal
Matt from www.prog.web.com | 08/20/2001
(4 out of 5 stars)
"A compelling and convincing release filled with intriguing compositions and light-hearted authenticity. With an eclectic mix of campy and heartfelt songs (all of which being at the very least entertaining when not inspiring) _Unikorn on the Cob_ has an awful lot to offer. Songs range from light and lazy jazz cuts to harder and busier prog rock pieces. The CD is, for the most part, song-oriented, with shorter tracks that average about 5 or 6 minutes in length. In truth, I would have preferred vocals that were slightly less monotone and lyrics with perhaps a little more creativity to them, but on the whole, this is one very good release. My favorite tracks are "Musical Findings", "Double Standard Booth" (meaning of the title anyone?), "Walk Fast", "We Love You Lots" (one the best songs of the year), and "Making Friends". This should be an exciting band to watch in the years to come."