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John Colella
"Red Shift"
(8-track CD, recorded at Blue Room Studio and Clearwater Studio, John Colella (all instruments), Lisa Huchin (vocals), Todd Plant (vocals), 43:44)
There are no extensive personnel credits on this CD, but it's apparent that Colella must be the keyboardist for this rock fusion romp, since most of the voicings (sax, bass, etc.) are synth or MIDI generated. Considering the complexity of this chops-oriented project, with several layers of intense playing all swirling around at once, Colella should be commended on technical accomplishment alone. For those of you unfamiliar with the fiery strains of Seventh House, Mahavishnu Orchestra, or Return To Forever, Colella prefers a fantastical brand of prog music, given to rapid chord changes, odd metering, and flashy soloing that was once measured for its breakneck execution. Thankfully, Colella uses the opportunity here to ease up on the pace, offering some tasteful twists and updated digital technology to the genre. Which is the main feature of “Red Shift,” having the keyboardist skillfully emulate the rhythm, reed and string efforts with ease, combining Keith Jarrett’s soft touch with Chick Corea’s explosive energy. A powerful debut effort.
(contact: JoCo Records, 2775 46th Avenue N., St. Petersburg, FL 33714-3957, email: joco.jazz@gte.net)
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