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Reviews

Samla Mammas Manna — Samla Mammas Manna
(Silence SRSCD 3603, 1971/2001, CD)

by Roel Steverink, Published 2002-04-01

Samla Mammas Manna Cover art

When Samla Mammas Manna released their debut album in 1970, it was immediately apparent that they had broken out of the confines of rock clichés. Lasse Holmer, Lasse Krantz, Hasse Bruniusson, and Henrik "Bebben" Öberg not only strived for a combination of rock, folk, and classical, but to bridge it with humor. Not many bands have successfully done this. With piano, backed by organ and subtle drumming, they stretch out in fine instrumentals. In opposition to other bands, they didn't need much space; within a few minutes they impress with complex improvisations. In between, you hear intermezzos with circus themes and indescribable madness, like drunken singing and dissonant flute playing which will become part of their trademark in the future. But don't be misled, these guys can seriously rock, as they prove with great jamming in "Manna Jamma." Although no guitar is present, you won't miss it, because the intense and brilliant varied percussion through out most of the album is a sufficient substitute. We also get two bonus tracks which are a very worthwhile addition. At last Silence has filled the gap, now all Samla albums are out on CD. A real treat for the prog rock connoisseur.

Filed under: Reissues, Issue 24, 2001 releases, 1971 recordings

Related artist(s): Lars Hollmer, Samla Mammas Manna / Zamla Mammaz Manna / Von Zamla, Hasse Bruniusson

 

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