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DNDI - The Last Electric Knight

 

Comments:
DNDI is the work of bass virtuoso/composer Dondi Ledesma, who has been releasing albums since 1991 on his own label. Dondi's fifth album The Last Electric Knight, released in 1997, is quite an instrumental treat for bassists and prog fans alike. Although the music is composed from a bassist's point of view, the compositions never become excuses for endless bass noodling. Instead, the compositions feature a nice balance of electric bass, piccolo bass(which at times sounds like an electric guitar), and keyboards, where symphonic/fusion themes and melodies are emphasized. The closest bands that I could compare this to would be Cast, Stanley Clarke, some Jaco Pastorius, with a touch of Dream Theater to spice things up a bit. But that's just to give you an idea.

If you're interested in hearing some sound samples, check out the DNDI webpage link below.

Webpage:
DNDI Webpage

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DNDI - Original Sin

 

Comments:
Original Sin was released in 1999. And there are some changes since The Last Electric Knight. The symphonic style that was hinted on The Last Electric Knight has been turned up on this one, although some fusion-ish influence remain during some of the solos. Vocals have also been added which remind me a bit of the singer from the 5uu's. They have that Jon Anderson-quality with a slight hint of Peter Gabriel/Phil Collins. 90's techno influences also make their appearance on some of the pieces. But they are done clearly from a prog fan's point of view. A perfect example is "De-hop-hip Tocatta" where a techno-influenced breakbeat is followed by a blistering, fusion-influence, bass solo with variations almost every 10 seconds.

Both albums come highly recommended. DNDI is a great example of high-quality progressive rock produced without the help of a label. The music is free of commercial pressure.

If you're interested in hearing some sound samples, check out the DNDI webpage link below.

Webpage:
DNDI Webpage

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