Right, I had to clarify a few things about this CD.
FrodoCPU is the name with which we should refer to it, even though the words "Frodo" and "CPU" are separate on the cover. CPU is the name of the band. But wait - FrodoCPU is the latest self-released CD by Norwegian artist Frode Holm, not Frodo. I'm confused… perhaps I should get on with the review!!!
Frode Holm is another of those immensely successful transatlantic artists. Originally from Norway, now settled in Santa Barbera, California (good choice of destination talent-wise, I suppose) he joined forces with Atle Bakken to showcase his new song list which he had built from scratch. Now, that's dedication.
At the age of 9, Frode was already on his way up the ladder. He quickly went from playing the piano to being a Keyboardist in a Norwegian band which toured extensively during the 70's. In the late 70's, Frode started out on his own and soon had the break that all music wannabe's seek - he joined forces with one Mario Medious, ex-manager of Emerson, Lake & Palmer. Then came a recording contract with Polygram, and the rest is history.
Every track on this CD is unbelievably long - an average of over 5 minutes. None of the repetition which is becoming the trademark of modern rock and pop, either, which gets it extra points straight away as far as I'm concerned. On the other hand, this isn't the sort of music you would expect to find in a modern dance club - but I can see plenty of people secretly grooving to it in the privacy of their own homes!!! This is the sound that people went ape for in the discos of the seventies and eighties, and which can now be described as a sort of "light, soulful rock".
It is absolutely astonishing to me that artists like Frode Holm continue to be unsigned, especially considering his successful past career. The trouble with many record companies today is that they won't go for anything that wouldn't be played in a modern disco/nightclub - hey guys, there are other types of music you know!
FrodoCPU is immensely listenable, if there is such a word. Here, we have a collection of easy listening pop/rock, soulful tunes and ballads which can be put on in the background when work is just getting on top of you. It's nice to get a chance to review music which doesn't just slot into the stereotypical "modern dance" genre. Get on over to http://www.frodocpu.com, take a listen and maybe pick yourself up a copy - there's never been a better way to convince your other half that you're just a big softie at heart...!!!
