Lance Monthly ("Bananas Foster"
review 2010)
By the time the Jigsaw Seen came together in the waning days of the eighties,
the members of the Los Angeles band had already sharpened their skills to great
effects in noted acts like the United States of Existence, the Playground and
Revolver. Now here it is twenty years later, and the band continues to craft
exceptional music. Although the Jigsaw Seen shares an intimate relationship with
the underground retro rock crowd, and there’s certainly nothing wrong with
that, the group is actually too polished and progressive to be classified as
such.
Spinning, swirling and twirling with exciting movements, “Bananas Foster”
transports the Jigsaw Seen’s grand ambitions to a whole new dimension. Layers
of electrifying harmonies intertwined with intricate arrangements, dazzling
designs and unusual melodies inhabit the material. Each number on the disc emits
its own aura, so there are no repeat performances or any hint of repetition at
all on the disc. From the haunting baroque tones of “Melancholy Morning” to
the toxic tremors of “Where The Action Isn’t,” the album produces one
surprise after another. Esoteric lyrics also account for plenty of interesting
moments. Sweeping organ fills, along with mandolins and trumpets further create
happening scenarios. Reference points include the Beach Boys and the Bee Gees at
their most experimental, as well as Procol Harum, Queen and assorted obscure
British sixties psychedelic groups. A mind-boggling mix of dark and light,
“Bananas Foster” is a powerful piece of work from a band that’s not afraid
to take risks and clearly has fun doing so.