PANZERBALLETT

This has got to be one of the most fun listens I've had in a while. Panzerballett plays a whimsical jazz- metal fusion. When you think of metal jazz fusion, I hope you think of Planet X if its not Panzerballett. While Planet X is cosmic and very difficult to pick apart, Panzerballett is down to earth and easy to delve into. Planet X is still the ultimate in this style, but they should look out, because Panzerballett is bringing something new and delightful to the table where bands bring intangible things.

The band's self-titled debut is a set of fast-paced tunes that feature an excellent rhythm section and leads provided by a guitarist and a saxophonist. Most of the solos are smooth and tasty, often occuring during the jazzy sections. The grooves are unmistakably key in composing a good jazz/fusion tune, and these guys groove with gusto. The album grooves like the ones in my old drum skins. The riffs are often syncopated and they sound very good.

There is absolutely nothing to complain about with the individual tracks. The only fault on the disc is that each song more or less runs through the same formula, which makes them difficult to remember after going through the whole thing. I think the band can add a bit more flavor into their mix.

All in all, this is a fun-fest of an album, and one should have no regrets in adding it to their collection.