Leap Second Neutral
Cuneiform, 2005
rating: 4/5
reviewer: christian carey


Fusion and instrumental prog both get a bad rap; critics frequently use the terms "noodling," 'indulgent," and "bloated" with a lazy abandon that suggests rampant stylistic prejudice. Machine and the Synergetic Nuts' latest album, Leap Second Neutral, suggests that most of these folks should eat their words; they won't: stylistic prejudices are slow to change. Fortunately, those who bypass the hype to listen with their own ears should find many musical delights here.

Machine's musical approach features particularly lively rhythmic gestures. "Neutral" is downright funky, setting a fusion bass-line against Fender Rhodes syncopations; Mahi-Mahi's overdubbed sax "section" peppers the environment with sweetly delivered harmonies. The saxophonist, guest guitarist Matsue Jun, and keyboardist Iwata Noriya engage in a vibrant colloquy on "M-B;" all the while, the rhythm section cooks behind them, employing the polymetric constructs of jazz-rock. The second section is decidedly proggy, featuring rolling keyboard arpeggios and an off-kilter, yet laser beam precise, solo from Jun.

Drummer Sudoh Toshiaki and bassist Suzuki Hiroyuki fill the background on the brief but punchy "Monaco." Noriya plays a faux-Hammond for some jazz licks and Mahi-Mahi interpolates a repeating melody comprised of short notes punctuated by rests. "Trout" is the most ear-catching piece on the album. Noriya lays down a piano shuffle, supplemented by another funky bass line construction from Hiroyuki and fill-laden fury from Toshiaki. Over this, a soaring soprano saxophone provides exhilarating solos. Two brief middle sections reverts to a '70s ambience, with Hammond chordal thrusts, Rhodes filigrees, and R&B saxophone gestures; the second also features a fetching solo from Hiroyuki. We return to a rhythmically charged version of the opening which closes the piece energetically. This is high octane, exciting, and creative music-making -- better than a triple espresso to get you going!

1. M-B
2. Monaco
3. Trout
4. Neutral
5. Stum
6. Oz
7. Solid Box
8. Texas
9. Normal