The world of Psychedelic Rock has enjoyed a population resurgence over the past couple of years, with all manner of newcomers coating their grooves in a warm, oscillating fuzz. In such a world it helps to gain patronage from a respected name and French sunshine crew Komodor have done just that: debut mini-album Komodor (Soulseller Records) carrying contributions and production work from Swedish Psych rulers Blues Pills.

That influence is there right from the start: opener ‘Still The Same’ is full of heavy rhythm and twirly bass, coated in a sixties fuzz and provides a healthy dollop of Blues boogie. Blues Pills frontwoman Elin Larsson aids Komodor vocalist Slyde Barnett with the chorus, with his squealing leadplay having a bigger influence as the track progresses. Larsson lets loose her scream through the ensuing ‘Join The Band’, the mid-section jam dripping with ominous intent and allowing each member to show off their considerable talent.

‘Nasty Habits’ sees more of the band’s Blues side coming through, a real throaty lead guitar soaring above a fizzing riff and honky-tonk organ in a track reminiscent of the wonderful Black Crowes. The track canters gallops and hurtles through its movements with a frenetic coda stirring the blood. Closer ‘1984’, meanwhile, progresses from an acoustic beginning into a bass-heavy, smouldering romp which displays a pensive Folk Rock side to the band’s sound.

As a debut effort, Komodor shows a great deal of promise, adding no little energy and a party vibe to a melodic yet weighty sound, and really whets the appetite for a more substantial release. Full of life and a little joie de vivre, watch out for these guys: they might just get your groove on.

7 / 10

PAUL QUINN