The Bottom Line
Heavy metal with jazz, progressive, ambient and world music influences.
Pros
- One of the most unique metal albums you'll hear.
Cons
- Might be an acquired taste for some.
Description
- Released March 21, 2006 on Prosthetic Records.
- Produced by Matt Bayles (Isis, Pearl Jam).
- This is Yakuza's third album.
Guide Review - Yakuza - Samsara
When you look at the CD insert and read that there is a band member that plays saxophone and clarinet, you know it's not going to be the usual metal album. Yakuza are definitely one of the most unique metal bands you will hear.
Yakuza mixes several genres that seem to be polar opposites and makes them sound really good. They are at heart a metal band, with growling vocals and intense guitars. But they also mix in long, mellow instrumental sections that are ambient and jazzy. But just when you think you're listening to a world music album the metal kicks back in.
Yakuza are an experimental and progressive band, and somewhat of an acquired taste. But if you spend some time absorbing their unique sound, it's a great taste.
