“Optimistic music in the age of fear.” That phrase is marked on the album’s inner sleeve. And it is pretty adventurous, upbeat and fearless at that! Sideman to legends like Miles Davis and modern prog rocker Steven Wilson, this is the keyboard wizard’s solo moment in the sun. And he delivers, with this Hammer/Hancock/post-Miles amalgam that truly works. “Ectoplasm” blends funk grooves, with a techno sensibility, while “Are You High?” features bop-like horns and “Phobia” explores vintage synth sounds. An odd and exciting treat is his choice to include Arthur Lee and Love’s obscure gem “A House is Not a Motel.”
Rating: 8/10
Released by: BFD/The Orchard
Producer: Adam Holzman and Kirk Palmer
