Record Reviews

MACHINA MUNDI ~ MACHINA MUNDI ANIMAL MUSIC 112 (Barcode: 8594211850117) ~ CZECH REPUBLIC ~ Jazz Recorded: 2022 Released: 2022 This is the debut album by the Machina MundiFind albums by this artist quartet, led by Czech saxophonist / clarinetist / composer Lubos SoukupFind albums by this artist, who has been living in Copenhagen in the last decade. He teamed up with Swedish keyboardist William LarssonFind albums by this artist and drummer Daniel JohanssonFind albums by this artist and Canadian bassist Graig EarleFind albums by this artist, former schoolmates from the local Rhythmic Music Conservatory, one of the most popular Jazz schools in Europe. The album presents seven original compositions, all by Soukup. The music is wonderful example of modern European Jazz, which offers splendid atmospheric compositions and superb performances by the quartet members. Soukup is an excellent melody weaver and his lyrical, almost nostalgic themes are truly irresistible. The compositional layer of this album is fascinating all the way through. The quartet performances are extremely delicate, masterly balanced between the leading clarinet / saxophone statements, the layers of electric piano / synthesizer effects, which provide the ideal binding matter for the music and the highly dynamic, almost Funky rhythm section. The music often changes the dynamics within one tune, which keeps the listener on edge for the entire duration. The album manages to create a unique, almost mysterious atmosphere, suitable for cinematic enhancement, which goes directly to the innermost emotional center of the listener, while tickling his intellectual / cerebral sensors at the same time. Overall, this is a wonderful album, full of great music and beautiful playing, which offers a fascinating listening experience with no dull moments. It offers a highly aesthetic listening experience, at times intriguing and at time soothing, which leaves the listener wishing for more, when the music is over. Wholeheartedly recommended!

Updated: 27/02/2023Posted: 27/02/2023

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