On their fourth record Poseidon French powerhouse DAGOBA somehow sails between the seas, also backpedals a little to bethink themselves on their strength displayed on their masterpiece What Hell Is About, yet keep using samples, electronics and orchestral elements as on the predecessor Face The Colossus. I much like this blend of industrial-tinged aggressive Neo Thrash/Modern Metal, especially since DAGOBA reflect on times, when Fear Factory was somewhat of a refreshingly new and inspiring act. On here everything sounds so much more lively and energetic, spreading a huge amount of esprit and power. Besides, French bands always own something special, you know, je ne sais quoi, I at least can hardly elude.
As for this there are many great smashers to find on Poseidon. Just risk an ear on Dead Lion Reef, The Devil’s Triangle and I Sea Red. I also like the instrumental The Horn Cape, and more contemplative tunes as in Shen Lung.
Compared to the predecessor, DAGOBAR distinctly accelerated speed and increased punch yet taking a step back every now and then for slower and groovy parts. As the album title implies, Poseidon is a marine concept, telling the story of a corsair plowing the oceans, and goes like a thread through all aspects of this album, including art work and booklet. Small and subtle details and patterns get repeated to create a homogenous overall picture. And the production is just as heavy as hell. If there is anything to nag about, then the closeness to the band’s idols, especially Fear Factory. I would not call it a lack of creativity, but it’s nothing new or innovative either.