Koxbox - Stratosfear

The 1996 three track release from Koxbox, "Stratosfear EP", probably shows the (back then) trio hitting their peak. It lands as a transition release between their two classic albums, the uber old schoolish, more melodic debut "Forever After", and their utterly insane and innovative sophmore output, "Dragon Tales", which saw these crazy danish producers slightly move away from melody and focus on detail, psychedelia and thought provoking effects.
"Stratosfear EP" combines both to outstanding results! All three tracks land as top notch classics in my book. Each of them is long, well crafted, with long and developed intros, leading to intriguing climaxes and realms of acid ridden dance floor psychedelia, groovy bass lines and stomping drum kicks, all of which are dipped in fat and juicy melodies. Pure genious!
Get it, this is some of the best old school material out there...

This is every bit as much Koxbox as we've come to expect from these veterans. Somewhere in between Forever After and Dragon Tales, I reckon, but musicwise matching both. And the reefer goes around ... ;o)

In my view, Koxbox has always been an act as challenging for the mind, as for the feet. So much happens during their tracks that they demand dedication to be fully appreciated. One layer comes on, you go with it, and just when you feel comfortable with it, it fades or a new layer is added. It can be frustrating! And it can be amazing.

Stratosfear is no different and not an album I put on lots of times. It's like good wine. Most days you go with what you have. On specials occasions or perhaps just a rainy day, you may treat yourself to something extra. That's when Koxbox enters the equation.