MJ12 is a new project fronted by Percy Jones, best known as the bass player for the '70s progressive fusion band Brand X. He was also a member of the jazz fusion band Tunnels from 1990 to 2005. On his new disc he has enlisted the help of Stephen Moses (drums), Chris Bacas (saxophones) and David Phelps (guitar).
The band plays fusion music at a very high level as the musicianship is second to none. This isn't one of those albums that will sink in immediately, it will likely take some spins to let the mind blowing instrumental workouts settle. Although the music is generally fast paced there are some slower moments where nuance and atmosphere is the main ingredient like in the superb "Bad American Dream Pt 2" where bass and sax create a moody soundscape. Eventually a fast paced groove breaks out augmented with an angular guitar attack and fusion style string bending. On the album opening "Call 911" the fast pace is set from the start with sinuous bass lines and a wicked guitar solo. One of the trippiest tunes is "Talk Time" where the electronics build slowly and the guitar and sax add spacey textures. Fretless bass continues its languid crawl across the soundscape making this one an ethereal delight. More ambient free form trippiness can be found in the last track "Magic Mist Reprise" with ethereal sax and nuanced drum work. The guitar is toned down but no less ferocious as it adds some interesting sounds to the sonic palette.
The bottom line; if you think space, ambient and jazz fusion go hand in hand give MJ12 some attention. It really is a mind bending affair that will keep you guessing all the way through.
A Gonzo Multimedia release.
Track Listing:
1. Call 911
2. Bad American Dream Pt 2
3. Talk Time
4. Magic Mist
5. The Wow Signal
6. Big Daddy's Road
7. The Phantom Maracas
8. Guns And Pussy
9. Magic Mist Reprise
For information regarding where to send CD promos and advertising, please see our FAQ page.
If you have questions or comments, please Contact Us.
Please see our Policies Page for Site Usage, Privacy, and Copyright Policies.
MJ12 is a new project fronted by Percy Jones, best known as the bass player for the '70s progressive fusion band Brand X. He was also a member of the jazz fusion band Tunnels from 1990 to 2005. On his new disc he has enlisted the help of Stephen Moses (drums), Chris Bacas (saxophones) and David Phelps (guitar).
Printer Friendly Page
Send to a Friend
