Magnetic

The sub-genre of fusion, although much maligned in some circles, retains its appeal for both musicians and audiences. In the right hands the mix of jazz and other, often more popular, styles can make the first accessible and may give the latter a vibrant spontaneity.


The members of the collaborative Quintet, Magnetic, have all the “street cred” to pull off a successful musical mélange. Their eponymous EP is proof of that.


For instance, the group’s guitarist, Nick Mizock, has recorded a rock album and leads an organ trio. His original contribution to the disc, the energetic “Divisceral” is a hard-swinging tune with fiery collective sound. It features Mizock’s angular and intelligent improvisation as well as pianist Paul Scherer’s soulful and crystalline solo.


Scherer—who has successfully blended western classical, new age, and jazz elements in the

past—shines on bassist Michael Barton’s “Tapestry.” His shimmering, cascading keys add an ethereal touch to the wistful and moody ballad. Saxophonist Joel Moore embellishes the

melody with contemplative and simmering lines.


Moore, who also plays in R&B bands, penned the pop-ish “Not So Far Away.” Barton’s lyrical and agile electric bass solo adds a nocturnesque feel to the effervescent piece.


Moore’s other contribution is the Latin-tinged “Sob a Luz Amarela.” In addition to featuring the saxophonist’s muscular and lithe phrases, it showcases drummer Paul Townsend and his thunderous, visceral beats.


Magnetic is a very cohesive group and one with high-caliber artistry. Their work, therefore, is highly enjoyable and engaging. This delightful release, despite its short duration, should have a wide appeal. - Chicago Jazz Magazine

Back in the days of vinyl albums, this 5 song “EP” would have been a complete album; such are the days and demands of cds and mp3. It’s refreshing to have material that is in a digestible size, with Joel Moore/ts-ss, Nick Miock/g, Paul Scherer/p-synth, Michael Barton/b and Paul Townsend/dr teaming together for some dreamy post bop. They do a soft and silhouetted take of Wayne Shorter’s “Ana Maria’ teaming Moore’s soprano with Mizock’s six strings while the two rollick over Townsend’s beat for the pulsating “Sob A Luz Amerela.” Scherer splashes ovories on an impressionistic “Tapestry” while the team gets almost C&Wish with Moore’s tenor on “Not So Far Away” and bopping with the best on “Divisceral.” Strong moods and themes. - www.jazzweekly.com

MAGNETIC/Ep: Sax man Joel Moore wisely knows there's strength in numbers and that's why he can graciously step aside to make sure everybody gets some. This smart crew, led by a leader that has a few miles on his pedometer, deliciously play as one making a fine round of contemporary jazz on a set of originals that has the oomph to have been a longer set. Solid stuff that's always a treat and never chore to listen to. Well done.
(Blujazz 3475) - www.midwestrecord.com