Procosmian Fannyfiddlers – Astonishing Tales Of Cod And Plankton (LL Records, 2021)
Norwegian progressive rock band Procosmian Fannyfiddlers breaks all progressive rock preconceptions. Although they masterfully incorporate all the cherished symphonic rock elements such as Mellotron, flutes and guitars, their style is zany, burlesque, humorous, satirical, irreverent and, in Frank Zappa-fashion, also scatological.
Procosmian Fannyfiddlers’ music incorporates symphonic rock elements such as mesmerizing Mellotron and skillful electric and cathedral organ, virtuosic guitars and violin, and odd time signatures, with echoes of Genesis, King Crimson, Curved Air, Yes, The Flower Kings, and Jethro Tull; as well as sound effects; folk and medieval influences; classical brass; jazz; mad laughter; and occasional short bursts of avant-garde music. On the whole, the music is deeply satisfying and mostly in the progressive symphonic rock field with superb musicianship and fascinating vocal work.
As I said earlier, the band has a wacky and mocking side, introducing barnyard humor in the lyrics with titles like “Lady Dung”. In addition, Procosmian Fannyfiddlers also poke fun at iconic progressive rock songs. Case in point, the song titled “Still…You Turn Me Off.”
Procosmian Fannyfiddlers was founded in Trondheim, central Norway. The current lineup includes Hebbe Santos on lead and backing vocals; Pornographic Johnson on lead and backing vocals; Shabe Fack on guitars, drums and backing vocals; Eric the Awful on bass; Bödd Lindfords on flute and backing vocals; Black-Metal Ekker on violin and backing vocals; Lord Lusk on keyboards and vocals; and Cunt Basie on trombone and backing vocals.
The band’s earlier albums include Gold (1997), …And Silver’s Quality (1998), Fisted Lady (1999), The Rolling Court Massacre (2001), Return Of The Sweaty Owl (2003), Father Dog (2005), The Horse From Hell (2008), Requiem Fatigue (2009), Interference Number 9 (2012) and Happy Accident (2017).
The band’s albums are available at their bandcamp store: procosmianfannyfiddlers.bandcamp.com