Metal Light in a Sharper Frame
McCaslin's Metalix leans into gleaming, electric textures and tight, forward-driving momentum.
Metalix opens with a bright, metallic shimmer and a forward pull that rarely lets up. The band sounds lean and alert, with Nate Radley's guitar cutting through the texture while the rhythm section keeps a driving, slightly restless pulse. Donny McCaslin's saxophone sits in the middle of it all, sometimes soaring, sometimes tight and punchy, but always pushing. It is a record that rewards listeners who like their jazz edged with rock energy and clean, modern production.
The album shows McCaslin working with a group that favors texture as much as melody. Matthias Lupri's vibraphone adds a glassy, reflective color that contrasts well with the heavier moments, and the reed work of Myron Walden fills out the ensemble with a rich bottom layer. Thomson Kneeland's bass gives the music its weight, and Jordan Perlson's drumming keeps things propulsive without turning the record into a workout.
Within McCaslin's catalog, this is a solid, engaging entry rather than a defining statement. It is worth hearing for anyone curious about his more electric and contemporary side, and it works well as a window into the sound he would keep exploring in the years after.
Who's playing
Thomson Kneelanddouble bass
Nate Radleyguitar
Jordan Perlsondrums
Matthias Luprivibraphone
Donny McCaslinwoodwind
Myron Waldenreeds
