Ever wonder what would have happened if Josef Zawinul had teamed with Pat Metheny instead of Wayne Shorter to form Weather Report? I think it would sound a lot like this hot album by drummer Wally Schnalle. He brings together his sticks and some electronics to team up with multi-guitarist Hristo Vitchev, bassist Joe Costantini and keyboardist Frank Martin to bring together eight originals that combine electronic fusion with driving modern sounds.
A 3rd World groove that opens the album on “Market Fresh” gives a nod to vintage Pastorious-era Weather Report, with some wonderful combinations of exotica and melody. Tricky, intricate and hard rocking pieces with the drum sticks flying mix with frenetic frets on material like “Sleeper Class” and “Breath Takers.” Vitchev’s Metheny-esque lyricism on the guitar gently cascades with piano and electronic “Prohibition 21” while a deep and funky bass groove is a foundation for some serious six string work on “ Erroneous.” Martin’s keyboards create a gentle and lovely melody on “Ferns!” as well, making this album a perfect balance of art and energy.
Retlaw Records