ORCHESTRION

Pat Metheny´s solo album Orchestrion evokes mixed feelings. On the one hand the concept of orchestrion as an instrument really supports and explains the way many instruments and musical arrangements on the album are played - for example percussions throughout the album (sometimes using long uniform patterns) and other instruments, especially in the first three tracks ´Orchestrion´, ´Entry point´ and ´Expansion´.

All this makes the fusion parts of the album sound a bit machinelike (as the title also promised) but unfortunately lacking really exceptional moments. Those who enjoyed Pat Metheny Group´s legendary albums ´Offramp´ and ´The Way Up´ may find that Orchestrion offers less surprises, some of the tracks don´t grow very much musically, and there is little synergy and dialogue between instrumentalists, which has been easily graspable on PMG´s earlier releases.

On the other hand it must be remembered that Pat played all of the instruments by himself and this is something that he really excels in. Last two tracks of the album - ´Soul Search´ and ´The Spirit of the Air´ present some remarkable and jazzy compositions and allow Pat to unleash his guitar genius. All things considered, Orchestrion creates some pleasent airwaves to listen to, but leaves few melodies to haunt you after you turn off the stereo. 3,5 out of 5 stars.

Thanks for reading my very first review on PA.

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