Niacin Time Crunch
Magna Carta MA-9059-2
By Russell Garwood
Fusion trio Niacin (named after the vitamin B3 due to their extensive use of the B3 organ) recently released Time Crunch, their fifth album. The band consists of bassist Billy Sheehan of Tala, Mr. Big and Explorers Club fame, John Novello on keyboards, whose credits include Chick Corea, Andy Summers and John Pattituci and legendary drummer Dennis Chambers. These three extremely talented musicians play jazzy fusion with strong funk influences.
The drums are --- as ever from Dennis Chambers tight, precise and intricate, the odd time signatures, off beat rests and frenzied fills taken in his stride. Despite a frequently staggering complexity, the drums support the music to perfection while maintaining a solo instrument feel, and Chambers speed around the kit is nothing short of amazing. Billy Sheehans bass is elaborate to the extreme, moving around the fretboard with phenomenal speed, while keeping all the notes clear and crisp, and suiting the mood of the songs very well. The generally frantic bass lines, along with the excellent drums make for one of the most competent rhythm sections I have heard for a long time. John Novellos keyboards, while slightly more laid back, are also proficiently performed, providing most of the melody in the music, and at times creating impressive atmospheres. The range of voices he uses adds a diversity that wouldnt otherwise be found in the music.
All of the songs on Time Crunch are very well written and skilfully played, hence there are no clear standouts. My favourites however, are opener Elbow Grease, the power funk feel and outstanding drums making for a catchy, impressive track, the slower, funkier Stone Face which has a memorable relaxed, ambient refrain halfway through, and the laid back jazz of Invisible King. A more melancholy note is struck with Glow, dedicated to Johns late wife, Gloria Rusch Novello. There are also two covers on the album, King Crimsons Red, and Jan Hammers Blue Wind.
As with much jazz/fusion, Niacins music often lacks a rigid structure and flowing melody, instead aiming for more technical, jumping tunes, which may put some people off. For any fans off jazz or funk, however, this should not be a problem, and due to the covers on Time Crunch, and the bands heavily rock influenced feel, this album may well appeal to many who usually ignore the genre. A trio of very talented jazz musicians, Niacins music is well written and extremely well performed.
Magna Carta MA-9059-2
By Russell Garwood
Fusion trio Niacin (named after the vitamin B3 due to their extensive use of the B3 organ) recently released Time Crunch, their fifth album. The band consists of bassist Billy Sheehan of Tala, Mr. Big and Explorers Club fame, John Novello on keyboards, whose credits include Chick Corea, Andy Summers and John Pattituci and legendary drummer Dennis Chambers. These three extremely talented musicians play jazzy fusion with strong funk influences.
The drums are --- as ever from Dennis Chambers tight, precise and intricate, the odd time signatures, off beat rests and frenzied fills taken in his stride. Despite a frequently staggering complexity, the drums support the music to perfection while maintaining a solo instrument feel, and Chambers speed around the kit is nothing short of amazing. Billy Sheehans bass is elaborate to the extreme, moving around the fretboard with phenomenal speed, while keeping all the notes clear and crisp, and suiting the mood of the songs very well. The generally frantic bass lines, along with the excellent drums make for one of the most competent rhythm sections I have heard for a long time. John Novellos keyboards, while slightly more laid back, are also proficiently performed, providing most of the melody in the music, and at times creating impressive atmospheres. The range of voices he uses adds a diversity that wouldnt otherwise be found in the music.
All of the songs on Time Crunch are very well written and skilfully played, hence there are no clear standouts. My favourites however, are opener Elbow Grease, the power funk feel and outstanding drums making for a catchy, impressive track, the slower, funkier Stone Face which has a memorable relaxed, ambient refrain halfway through, and the laid back jazz of Invisible King. A more melancholy note is struck with Glow, dedicated to Johns late wife, Gloria Rusch Novello. There are also two covers on the album, King Crimsons Red, and Jan Hammers Blue Wind.
As with much jazz/fusion, Niacins music often lacks a rigid structure and flowing melody, instead aiming for more technical, jumping tunes, which may put some people off. For any fans off jazz or funk, however, this should not be a problem, and due to the covers on Time Crunch, and the bands heavily rock influenced feel, this album may well appeal to many who usually ignore the genre. A trio of very talented jazz musicians, Niacins music is well written and extremely well performed.
