On A Sophisticated Face, they deliver an exciting stylistic departure; on this CD the band are essentially a miniature orchestra, employing guitar, trumpet, soprano, alto & baritone sax, alto clarinet, violin, cello, cymbalom, bass & percussion. This is gloriously orchestrated, sophisticated, intriguing music, performed by one of the best "complex music" bands on the planet. What does it sound like? Well, it sounds like Blast - if Blast were being played by the the Generation Sans Futur line-up of Art Zoyd!

"If one can appreciate the extremes of precision and complexity, then this is the real thing...some of the most amazing & completely insane chamber rock of the day." - Exposé

Stringy Rugs is Blast's third release. In addition to their usual instruments, they have scored parts for a number of guests on tuned percussion, brass & more. Combines a very unique & recognizable skewed rhythmic base [influenced by Capt. Beefheart] with angular & intricate horn & guitar charts ala Henry Cow and Doctor Nerve. ALL their releases are very fine, but this one is certainly their best yet. Must be heard to be believed; this is a great disc of intensely complicated, rehearsal-intensive RIO-style rock.

Wire Stitched Ears is the 2nd release by this Dutch avant/rock quartet. They use electric and acoustic guitars, alto/soprano sax, bass clarinet, baritone sax, bass, drums and vocals. About 1/3rd has vocals, while the rest is instrumental. The music is tough-edged and agressive, with obvious nods to the "downtown sound", Henry Cow and <185> era Muffins, but mostly they just sound like Blast!

"Furiously paced, chopping and changing, and rarely predictable, Blast create a challenging music that's almost perplexingly mind numbing" - Audion