Zhongyu – Zhongyu (MoonJune Records MJR078, 2016)
Despite the band name, the Chinese-style artwork and even some of the music, this is not a Chinese act. Instead it’s a progressive music project that brings together composer and multi-instrumentalist Jon Davis, three members of American progressive rock band Moraine and a jazz drummer.
The result is fabulous cocktail that crosses numerous music boundaries. There is electronica, progressive rock, avant-garde music, jazz-rock and world music with a Chinese edge.
Jon Davis delights the listener with his collection of multi-dimensional music instruments: Chapman stick, guzheng (Chinese zither), mellotron and synthesizer.
In addition to the music itself, Zhongyu also experiments with sound. Instrumentalist Jon Davis plugs the guzheng into a modular synthesizer and processes a bass clarinet through a wah-wah pedal.
The album lineup includes Jon Davis on Chapman Stick, guzheng, Mellotron, ARP 2600; Dennis Rea on electric guitar, resonator guitar; Alicia DeJoie on electric violin; James DeJoie on baritone saxophone, flute, bass clarinet; and Randy Doak on drums and percussion. Special guest: Daniel Barry on trumpet.
Zhongyu is an exceptionally good, multi-faceted progressive music album.
Buy Zhongyu