With their new project, Ultra Forever, Jyro Xhan, Jerome Fontamillas and Frank Lenz, have effectively driven the final nail in the coffin of the band that used to be Mortal. Gone are even the vestiges of industrial noise that were left over on Return; they've been replaced by intricately produced and intelligently choreographed electronic music. What is not missing is the wondrous, experiential songcrafting. By writing songs on the piano instead of on the guitar, incorporating lots of samples and electronics, and stressing personal perspectives, Fold has created an exceptional listening experience. Layering sound on sound and utilizing first rate musicianship, Fold Zandura's sophomore effort sounds like a cross between King's X and the Alan Parsons Project. But don't get the impression that Fold has gone soft. The opening cut, "La Futura," slithers in with a careful electronic wail, and then kicks in with a thunderous, driving drum roll followed by slashing guitar licks accompanied by distorted vocals. The whole mood of the song evokes emotional images of a Hollywood-crafted future that is intriguing, yet intimidating--just the kind of place depicted in movies like Blade Runner or Mad Max: Beyond Thunderdome. The driving intensity continues through much of the first half of the album, punctuated by brief interludes that give the listener time to ponder the beauty of a well-turned phrase. Consider the tender love song, "Please Believe": Please believe that I never wanted to hurt you/ Please forgive anything I said that was untrue/ Now it's too late to fill a space you've taken away. While Fold spends considerable time dwelling on human relationships, they do not ignore spiritual matters. "Jesus Eternal" is a sweet hymn of adoration, while "Starwood" ponders the mystery of creation: A million suns are shining/ A thousand rivers rushing/ memories returning to me/ We are something out of nothing. Strong pop-rock hooks entangled with full-bore guitars and electronic noise, combined with lush orchestrations pushes Ultra Forever solidly into the forefront of modern music. This project should earn Fold Zandura the credibility they deserve.
Other coverage for this album
The Lighthouse Unsorted 1998Reviewed by Alex KlagesJyro, Jerome, and Frank are back! This time they have an album, not just an EP in album's clothing. On this, their self-produced second album (fourth release, but only Return and this disc have had adequate distribution), Jyro Xhan demonstrates once again his uncanny ability for writing catchy pop/rock songs. This time around, there is less emphasis on the guitars, though they are still a major…Puddlegum 1998Reviewed by Aaron Blanco"The old [Mortal] music was good; but I wouldn't be able to stand just playing that. I have to be always pushing the envelope, trying new stuff." So said Jerome Fontamillas, bassist for one of music's perennial innovaters, Fold Zandura. Not long ago Fold played a show in Magee, Mississippi (February 17, 1998, to be exact) with tourmates, The Insyderz. I showed up early to help the bands unload…Similar sounding releases
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