24 Tales

Unusual in concept and execution, this joint project between multi-instrumentalist Alex Machacek and drummer Marco Minnemann crosses over many boundaries of jazz fusion as well as production techniques. Minnemann recorded a single continuous drum track over which Machacek then dubbed guitar, keyboards, and other instruments. The result is a continuous music made up of many snippets of thought and sound projection, some song styles, improvisation, and solos on occasion. While the music is complex, minimalist, or even kinetic, it is far from tame or commonplace. Primarily an electric guitarist, Machacek is capable of some amazing sounds whether he approaches rock or jazz fusion, even minimalism or looped-type techniques. His musical portrait of the "Tour de France" encompasses the gamut of emotions a cyclist can experience during the three-week race, while "At the Club" is both comical and busy, with help from trombonist Martin Ptak. There are maddeningly kinetic moments, down-in-the-dumps blues, mysterious elements, and Machacek's acoustic piano on occasion. Minnemann's drumming can be sparse or full of girth, but more up and down as energy surges and disperses. While some might find this lacking in cohesion and true communality, there's a good spirit present, listenable and tuneful in spots, and inspired for many others.