Meet Reviewer Damian Erskine

Matthew Garrison
“Improvisio”
www.garrisonjazz.com

This new release (of equal billing) featuring Matthew Garrison (bs), Jeff Sipe (dr) & Alex Machacek (gtr) is as aggressive and effective as the players are heavy. I have been anticipating this album for some time (being a huge Jeff Sipe (aka “Apt. Q258”) fan from his days with Col. Bruce Hampton & the Aquarium Rescue Unit). The chance to hear Matt and Jeff combine their unique styles and endless musicality had me going from the top and I wasn’t disappointed. In fact, I now also have a new obsession with guitarist Alex Machacek. I must admit, I was unfamiliar with Alex’s playing until now and he is just fantastic.

The albums kicks off with the grittiest and thickest crunch guitar rhythm I’ve yet heard on a non “metal” album, and the intensity just keeps on. The playing is top tier in every way. While each of these players has a very strong and unique voice on their respective instruments, they also interact and blend like they had been touring this material for some time (even though the entire album was predominantly brought together and recorded over a weekend). Any singular fan of any of these players will not be disappointed. If you’re looking for some (much needed) intensity in your jazz, this may be the album for you.