TURBO ELEPHANT PROJECT

— First review of this album —

Italian trio TURBO ELEPHANT PROJECT isn't amongst the most high profile outfits as far as having an internet presence, and will probably fall under the description obscure by most. At this stage they have one production to their name, the mini album "Niente Scorciatoie" from 2009. And while it probably never will be talked about as a hidden gem that never got the attention it deserved, this is a nice and pleasant release that does deserve a bit more attention.

Jazz and fusion inspired material makes up most of the material at hand, and especially the trio of Elephant Blues, No Smoking Area and Cio Che Ci Unisce takes on jazzrock with a distinct 70's tinge to it. The main jazz rock flavours delivered by way of saxophone soloing and subtle but effective drums, crafting melodic, easygoing and pleasant sonic experiences. Not breathtaking material by far, but interesting material that should find a receptive audience amongst those who enjoy the melody based part of this genre.

Opening number Niente Scorciatoie blends raunchier art rock and fusion tendencies in a brief and energetic number, while second excursion Gibe III and final track Nero are more distinct solo guitar pieces, both of them with a few nifty finesses not too commonly explored by the greater parts of the six stringer brigade, with subtle features something of a key description.

All in all a pleasant affair, which should be of interest to those who are fond of 70's jazzrock, in particular if they also find distinctly melodic guitar based material to be generally fascinating.