Prog Vs Fusion
Sky Cat, 2025
9/10
The atypical Big Band leader, Ed Palermo, recruits a large cast for these 19 adventurous and exciting tracks, many of which you’ll be familiar with.
The quick pace of “Resolution” opens with manipulated vocals and swift bass and drums that builds into a soaring climate, and it isn’t long until “Tarkus” showcases complicated keys, bouts of scrappy drums and bright brass for the prog fueled delivery.
Further along, the chunky bass of “Snake Oil” leads into animated saxophones amid Ray Marchica’s thumping drums, while “There’s No Mystery About My G-Spot” welcomes softer moments and flowing melodies to the avant-garde nature.
Residing near the end, “The Fish” is an intricate and quirky album stand out that benefits much from layered winds and brass, and the booming “Pictures Of A City” exits with a hint of a haunting quality and Bruce McDaniel’s meticulous guitar for the firm rock finish.
All the songs present are covers, but Palermo puts his inimitable spin on them. The aptly titled record gives us a great idea of what to expect, and it certainly doesn’t disappoint.
Travels well with: Ric Harris And The Heat Merchants- Along The Avenue; Joe Elefante’s Wheel Of Dharma- Wheel Of Dharma