Treasure From The Jazz Fusion Era!
A. Davis | Greenville, SC | 07/15/2009
(5 out of 5 stars)
"When I first heard the song "Tale of the Whale" on a Jazz radio station in 1979, I thought it was the latest release from Jaco Pastorious' Big Band. The driving and floating bass lines, complete with harmonics and quick stops, left a big smile on my face because I love to hear a dynamic bassist rip the heart out of a song. It turns out that this was Matrix - a group I had not encountered before. Picking up "Tale of the Whale" on vinyl was like discovering a new vein of musical gold. This music was somehow unique and different compared to what I had accumulated in my growing collection. This electric big band produced a vibrant sound that had a nice mysterious feel that blended elements from several musical styles. Over time, I managed to wear the LP out and only managed to hear this music on a cassette tape that I had made. I am delighted that this music is finally released on CD. There is no weakness here. These six tracks are spontaneous, dynamic and grooving, and the horns are awesome. Randy Tico's bass playing is an absolute jewel throughout and the percussionists provide the right pulse to lay a solid foundation for each track to soar. This music captures the best of the Jazz Fusion Era. Thank you Wounded Bird Records for continuing to unearth these forgotten treasures. You have filled a big void in my music collection. I am looking forward to your future releases from this time period. Enjoy!"
Incredible Album
Contemporary Media Introspectives | Torrance, CA United States | 07/26/2009
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Wore my vinyl copy of this gem of an album out years ago. I was floored to see it finally emerge on CD. Matrix is a very underrated tight band from Wisconsin. The blow some serious stuff and thr arrrrangements are impeccible. Tight horns. Driving rhythm section. Very unique sound. Doesn't sound like it was recorded 29 yrs ago. Sort of reminds me of early Weather Report, especially the bass. Get this album, if you dig Late '70s Jazz/Fusion style instrumental ensemble music."
Track Listings (6) - Disc #1