Coma

Exploring "Amoc" by Coma

"Amoc" is the second studio album from the Danish band Coma, released in 1980 through Genlyd Grammofon. The album was recorded at Easy Sound Studio in Copenhagen. The band's lineup features Jakob Mygind on saxophones, Viggo Steincke Bertelsen on guitar, Leif Christensen on bass, Klaus Thrane on drums, and Palle Rosenkrantz on percussion. Guest musicians Michael Bundgård and Søren Møller Nielsen contribute organ, keyboards, and musical saw, respectively. This collaboration results in a diverse and textured sound throughout the album.

Musical Characteristics

The title "Amoc" is an anagram of the band's name, which hints at the self-referential nature of the album. Musically, "Amoc" evolves Coma's sound into a heavier and darker jazz-rock fusion. It incorporates elements of avant-prog and Zeuhl, characterized by intricate rhythms and strong melodic lines reminiscent of the Canterbury Scene. The album features playful melodies that draw comparisons to the works of Frank Zappa, Soft Machine, and National Health.

Throughout the eight tracks, the band explores various themes and styles. Notable tracks like "Savværket" and "Orientexpressen" showcase the rhythmic complexity and dynamic interplay between instruments. The band’s use of saxophones and guitar creates a rich tapestry of sound, while the rhythm section drives the music forward with precision.

Production Details

Niels Erik Lund recorded the album, ensuring clarity and depth in the sound. The lacquer cut was handled by Peter Dahl at Europa Film, which contributes to the album's high-quality production. Lis Steincke designed the cover and captured the photography, reinforcing the album's artistic vision and connection to the music.

With its innovative approach to jazz-rock fusion, "Amoc" reflects the creative energy of the late 1970s and early 1980s. The album features eight tracks, including "Pulp" and "Heavy Winter." It stands as a representation of a unique moment in Danish progressive music history. The catalog number for the release is GENLP 118 / GENLP 119.