The Martin Green Machine: First Sighting
A First Sighting of the Martin Green Machine
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Sunday, 08, Feb 2009 10:03
Navigator Records, February 9th.
In a nutshell...
A funky feel with a dash of eccentricity that warps you into a surreal state surrounded with instrumental talent.
What's it all about?
With each song prominently different from the next, First Sighting keeps you on your toes for ten tracks. The album touches on virtually every aspect of the musical field with hints of jazz, folk, classical, rock and drum 'n' bass. Although album opener Repetition drags on for awhile, the varied use of instruments distracts you from its repetitive lyrics and the same goes for the other tracks.
Who's it by?
The Martin Green Machine began with accordionist Martin Green's commission piece for last year's Celtic Connections' New Voices series. The Martin Green Machine brings together talent from artists in England and Scotland to form a new set of music.
As an example...
"I knew they were coming for you/We share an uneasy bed, but the sweetness of the morning brought us clarity." - Quayle Paint
Likelihood of a trip to the Grammys
If you are prepared to keep an open-mind before delving into this album, then I can see the tracks receiving some radio airplay and recognition from other artists. The Martin Green Machine is developing a new genre of music that may take awhile for the music audience to adjust to.
What the others say
"Pulls together a plethora of stylistic references: folk, avant rock, dance, global, jazz, sampling, you name it-in an original and exciting way that is all his own." - The Scotsman
"Tirelessly effervescent and creative with outstanding solo features." - The Herald
So is it any good?
Patience is definitely tested with First Sighting as there is an uncanny and surreal vibe exuding from the album while simultaneously sparking your curiosity. Although the word 'different' is loosely used with a positive connotation and interchangeably with inspirational, this implication does not necessarily apply in this context as the album will leave listeners either loving it or disliking it. The transition from one instrument to the next keeps listeners interested, but when thrown altogether, it can leave you feeling quizzical and expecting and craving the mainstream and comfortable music we are all used to.
First Sighting is definitely an acquired taste that provides a little something for everyone and that cannot help but leave you feeling musically liberated.
7/10
Muriel Taing