Lofoco, Alex: Beyond

Bassist Alex Lofoco was born in Rome and moved to London to study music. Beyond is his solo debut, featuring heavyweights Marco Minnemann on drums, Jordan Rudess (Dream Theater), and Chick Corea Elektric Band sax man Eric Marienthal. Lofoco is also a teacher, clinician, and writes for a number of music publications.

Have you ever listened to the first track of an album and felt you already got your money’s worth? You instinctively know that this is going to be good from start to finish. That was the feeling after the opening “Rolling The Stone�, a powerful rocking track that features screaming horns, ripping guitar, piano, and Lofoco’s excellent bass work. Although it’s complex and varied, it’s also remarkably catchy. That’s a major accomplishment in this genre, and Lofoco succeeds. Guitarist Roby Meola caught my ear pretty quickly with his impressive playing, and Minneman must have needed oxygen after this was finished. I find myself drawn to the horns; they add a certain tonal contrast, and more melody. Wow- well, that’s all for the first track, but wait, there’s more!

“Resurrection� sounds more in line with traditional jazz, the muted horn tone, but quickly morphs with some speedy keyboard, bass, and guitar runs. Lofoco definitely likes to keep the tempo up, and if you are a horn lover, this track will grab you. I start to realize that this album is right in my wheelhouse; I love the aggressive playing in these compositions. Rudess gets a nice solo spot here (and in other spots), as the band slows things down and grooves beneath him. “Earthquake� puts Lofoco’s bass front and center, his syncopated slapping & popping are dazzling. It doesn’t need to be said, but the playing is intricate and interesting from start to finish. A more atmospheric feel is brought in to end the 9+ minutes, with Lofoco impressively displaying his chops. “Mystery Of Faith� has a metallic edge to it, and I will say for the last time, the playing is just jaw dropping. “Beyond� closes the disc with beautiful and soulful guitar and horn soloing.

There is no need to go into more detail, there are times where you automatically connect with the music, and this happened with me. I love the intensity that stays at full throttle throughout the disc. Lofoco has a wonderful compositional sensibility, and kept my attention throughout the hour of music. Highly recommended.

Track List:

1. Rolling The Stone
2. Resurrection
3. Grace
4. Earthquake
5. Mystery Of Faith
6. The Spear
7. Beyond

Added: March 19th 2022
Reviewer: Eric Porter
Score:
Related Link: Artist Website
Hits: 438
Language: english

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