Hi, Although they've stuck to the same formula and haven't changed much, I'd say that Ruins have got better over the years, and with (relatively new) bass player Sasaki Hisashi now fully up to speed, they're at the top of their game. The best way to experience them is live, but failing that I'd recommend Mandala 2000 - Live in Kichijoji (Tzadik). Shameless personal plug - check out the review on amazon.co.uk. Another reason to avoid early releases when you're starting out is the appalling sound quality. If you're into Improv either of their albums with Derek Bailey (Saisoro on Tzadik and Tohjinbo on Paratactile?) are worth a listen. On the Merzbow front, a couple of people have mentioned Aqua Necromancer as his tribute to Prog. I seem to remember reading that 'Door Open at 8' was his tribute to Jazz. Enlightenment please? Dave "Results! Why man, I have gotten a lot of results. I know several thousand things that won't work." Thomas Edison. _________________________________________________________________ Add photos to your e-mail with MSN 8. Get 2 months FREE*. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/featuredemail