Alex Machacek, Raphael Preuschl and Herbert Pirker -][- FAT – [Abstract Logix, 2012] –

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Abstract Logix, Alex Machacek, Allan Holdsworth, Herbert Pirker, Raphael Preuschl

Alex Machacek, Raphael Preuschl and Herbert Pirker, FAT

Alex Machacek, Raphael Preuschl and Herbert Pirker -][- FAT – [Abstract Logix, 2012] –

The amazing Alex Machacek has done it again. Combining mind-boggling fluidity, daredevil string-skipping technique and audacious intervallic leaps on the guitar that will make even the most ardent Allan Holdsworth fan sit up and take notice, with a penchant for precision ensemble playing that rivals the late, great Frank Zappa’s — as heard on the rhythmically complex and slightly tongue-in-cheek Why Not (aka Disco Polka), and the equally intricate Safe Word — the extraordinary Austrian native and current California resident has upped the ante on all of his previous impressive outings as a leader with FAT (Fabulous Austrian Trio). The guitarist is ably accompanied on his sophomore outing as a leader by superb drummer Herbert Pirker and outstanding bassist Raphael Preuschl, who appeared together on some tracks from [Sic], Machacek’s impressive 2005 debut for Abstract Logix.

Allan Holdsworth -][- HARD HAT AREA – [Moonjune Records, 2012] –

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Allan Holdsworth, Guitar

Allan Holdsworth, HARD HAT AREA

Allan Holdsworth -][- HARD HAT AREA – [Moonjune Records, 2012] –

Bookended by the quasi-orchestral compositions Prelude and Postlude, the music on Hard Hat Area was in some respects simply a logical extension of the ultra-sophisticated and highly idiosyncratic style of jazz-fusion that Allan Holdsworth had developed on his previous seven albums. But in other respects it was quite different, perhaps the most significant difference being that it was recorded by the guitarist’s touring band, which had refined the material by performing it live before entering the studio. ”It was more of a band record than my previous two, which were almost more like solo records,” says Holdsworth.”