Coma

Introduction to Coma's Financial Tycoon

In 1977, the Danish progressive jazz-rock group Coma released their debut studio album, Financial Tycoon, through the Genlyd label. Formed in Frederikshavn in 1971, Coma brought together a unique blend of influences, drawing from the Canterbury scene and jazz-rock fusion. The album was recorded at Plexus Sound Studio and features intricate compositions arranged collectively by the band members.

Band Composition and Guest Musicians

The quintet lineup of Coma includes Jakob Mygind on saxophones, Flemming Friberg on guitar and lead vocals, Viggo Bertelsen on guitar, Leif "Guru" Christensen on bass guitar, and Klaus Thrane on drums, percussion, and piano. Guest musicians enhance the album's texture, featuring Bent Klausen on vibraphone, Skak Snitker on trumpet, and Ernst Thomsen on violin. This collaboration adds depth to the already complex soundscape.

Musical Style and Influences

Financial Tycoon is characterized by its intricate Scandinavian progressive jazz-rock fusion. The album incorporates polyrhythmic brass arrangements, dual guitar counterpoints, and vibraphone accents, showcasing a playful approach akin to the styles of Frank Zappa and the Canterbury scene. The album features changing time signatures and a mix of humor, comparable to bands like Soft Machine, Hatfield and the North, King Crimson, and National Health.

Track Highlights

The album consists of ten tracks, each contributing to the overall thematic and musical journey. Notable pieces include the centerpiece "Tumblin' Shadows," which runs for 8:13, and "One Of Them Crazy Gurues In Love," which exemplifies the band's whimsical style. The tracks "Financial Tycoon 1" and "Financial Tycoon 2" provide a cohesive narrative thread throughout the album.

Production Details

Produced by Ole Rasmussen, the album captures the band's sound effectively, emphasizing the complexity of the arrangements. The recording at Plexus Sound Studio allowed for a detailed presentation of each instrument, contributing to the album's layered texture. The catalog number for this release is GENLP 1007 / GENLP 106.

Conclusion

Financial Tycoon represents a significant entry in the Danish progressive rock landscape, highlighting the unique sound of Coma. The album was released on vinyl in 1977.