The Mars Volta is a unique sound that combines genres to achieve a ridiculously excellent effect. Long interludes of pure sound interrupt their intense but sometimes nonsensical lyrics. They are quite spectacular.

"Afro-haired, left-hander Omar plays atonal freestyle so amazingly fast that it's like watching a video on fast-forward. It takes a while to adjust your brain from the customary 1, 2, 3, 4 timings to The Mars Volta's randomness. Once you do, you realise just how difficult and creative these geezers are."

"The songs explode with creativity, fusing jazz riffs, tribal rhythms, hardcore bursts of noise, and addictive rock hooks into one of the most compelling discs of the year."

Splitting from the equally excellent At The Drive In, they bring a healthy mixture of progressive rock and roll and punk. If you enjoy The Mars Volta, you should also check out At The Drive In.

The Mars Volta Homepage

Listen.

Interitatic
Drunkship of Lanterns
Televators