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CD REVIEW: Spyn Reset - Objects in the Abstract
By Cyrus Rhodes - 12/09/2010 - 12:25 AM EST
Artist: Spyn Reset
Album: Objects in the Abstract
Label: Independent Artist
Website: http://www.myspace.com/spynreset
Genre: Free Jazz, Jazz Fusion, Experimental, Avant-Garde
Sounds Like: Mahavishu Orchestra, Herbie Hancock, Weather Report, Spyra Gyra
Technical Grade: 10/10
Production/Musicianship Grade: 10/10
Commercial Value: 7/10
Overall Talent Level: 10/10
Songwriting Skills: 8/10
Performance Skill: 10/10
Best Songs: Exit Point, Green Rose, Orange & Blue
Weakness: Dude where’s the Guitar, Winded Pieces
CD Review:
Seattle based Spyn Reset releases their freshman release Objects in the Abstract in 2009. Members include Yasu – Fender Rhodes Piano & Grand Piano, Evan McPherson – Bass & Cello, Nima Abbassi (Drums) Dariun Aspland (Tenor Saxaphone) Brian Woolford (Organ, Electric Piano, & Grand Piano) Garrett Troy (Percussion). The Album gas one guest musician: Julian Priester (Jazz Trombone). The CD was recorded at the legendary London Bridge Studios.
The CD blasts off with ‘Green Rose” a flipped out piece that serves up infectious type drum rhythms, with pulsating peaks & valleys painted against a colorful canvass of music & sound that comes at you from every which direction. Also present are sizzling electric piano & bass guitar chops that are hot to the touch. Track 2 “Yellow Plants” presents a kaleidoscope of sound featuring dynamic rhythm section, impressive saxophone & vivid walls of melody that that flow & ebb its way through to dynamic fruition. Track 3 “In the Shade of Light” shifts gears a bit with easy flowing Hammond Organ chops pulsating rock vibe, against mesmerizing electric piano accents. As the CD slowly unfolds I can hear classic elements of flipped out Fusion Jazz that takes no prisoners & has pushes down all musical boundaries. Influences I suspect are Herbie Hancock, Weather Report, Mahavishnu Orchestra, Sample & Spyra Gyra. You will also notice lush layers musical instrumentation layered everywhere from dynamic beats & rhythms, to amazing Electronic piano & Hammond Organ chops, juicy bass grooves, & well placed saxophones & percussive elements. The soundscapes are interesting, infectious, hooky & hypnotic. Make no bones about it, this band knows how to throw down a jam. The CD has some truly impressive moments on it showcasing an impressive playing, amazing creativity & brilliant originality. I also enjoy the dynamic live feel the CD has to it. From hard hitting “In a few Minutes” to dynamic “Silent Reflection” & Visual for the Blind” to my personal favorite slamming “Exit Point” to hypnotic “Slamming” & “Orange & Blue” to mesmerizing “Thief” this CD has something for just about everyone. I especially liked some of the easy flowing & tranquil moments like on easy flowing “Starry Triangle” to tranquil “The Spotless Studio” It’s definitely a very dynamic & progressive musical statement that offers a lot of musical variety & amazing sound imagery. The CD ends with “Progressing Slowly” the perfect finale statement.
It’s hard to find solid weaknesses with this CD no doubt. But God how I wish, wish, wish, wish I head some sizzling jazz guitar chops & solos in this line up. The guitar is a primary instrument within the genera no doubt. Why it was left behind – well it’s not my musical vision to say - but as impressive as this CD is its fair to say if there was a sizzling guitar thrown in the mix – the CD would even be better overall. All songs over 4 minutes tend to drag you to the finish line.
Overall Objects in the Abstract from Spyn Reset has some truly impressive moments on it. Overall it’s a very dynamic & interesting catalogue of music. The music is highly original with amazing musical depth, amazing instrumentation, & chops that will make your head spin. Make no bones about it these guys are very capable players & composers. It’s nice to know there are still solid players in the world. The musical textures & compelling, & full of variety. This CD is a rare find – should be considered as such. Overall it’s a very entertaining catalogue of music. So strap on the seat belt, close your eyes & hold on for a very wild ride that is none other than – Spyn Reset.
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