ALBUM REVIEW: One Tuun – Jomo Tuun

London-based progressive metal trio JOMO TUUN may be fresh on the scene, only forming in 2020, but they already exhibit a level of professionalism beyond their years. Hot off the press, their debut release One Tuun which is available now via Drongo Records is poised to turn a lot of heads and put them in great stead going into 2022.

Scorpion Watcher Welcomes You instills a sprightly and energetic tempo almost instantly. Wild, twisting and turning riff work puts you on the back foot as you try to wrap your head around what is unfolding. The exciting unpredictability of this controlled frenzy sets the tone for what is to come. The Lindworm Stirs possesses a particularly sombre and ominous demeanour and it gently plods along in the initial stages before beginning to gather momentum. Flamboyant bass lines and snappy drumming join forces in sudden flourishes to ensure you’re paying attention. Omni Potenta returns to the upbeat, positive vibes and has all the hallmarks of a free flowing jazz session – fluid and effortless. Don’t be fooled however; there are some darker tones lurking beneath the surface, ready to strike at a moments notice.

Tetracyst takes an eccentric, discordant approach, creating a tense environment. Slick intricacy and sporadic tempo shifts don’t allow you to become too acquainted or comfortable with a particular rhythm or beat. Crazy riffing and frantic bursts of instrumentation appear from each and every direction. Seventh Ruler sounds rather sinister but irresistibly alluring at the same time. Sharp jabbing guitar work forms the backbone of the arrangement. Barghurst intends on this release departing on a lively note as it is crammed with quirky yet smooth technicality that may have your head spinning if you’re not familiar with such unconventional displays. The rich layering is tastefully done as to not cause a traffic jam of instruments along the way.

To achieve material this creative and inventive without sounding like you’re blowing your own trumpet requires a lot of tact and humility. JOMO TUUN have shown an impressive level of maturity in their fearless approach, providing an evocative and colourful palette to get your teeth stuck into. It’s always a dangerous game dropping material this late in the year for fear of being lost in the frantic surges of end of year lists but One Tuun deserves a huge amount of recognition and will surely achieve it.

Rating: 9/10

One Tuun is out now via Drongo Records.

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