Recorded and mixed from June to November 2009, here's a solo recording by a creative musician and vibraphonist, who should be placed in the mecca of the players that did bring new aspects to the instrument, from Gary Burton to Mike Mainieri. Strange enough but the RYM profile here above does not mention his membership to an even more important band than those listed: Brand X. Wagnon was belonging to what's commonly called Brand X 2, aka the line-up from the 90's. And he has been pushing the technical limits on the instrument to new heights, through an extensive use of MIDI technology. "Earth Is a Cruel Master" is a rather reflective album, with plenty of goodies: quirky harmonic work, a refined balance of electric and acoustic instruments and sounds, inspiring soloing on vibraphone, plenty of emotional textures, etc... Wagnon is on top of this also in charge of the drums, setting in relief his huge competence as a full percussionist (drums, percussion, vibraphone, marimba). And he plays the keyboards too! Guitarist Van Manakas is a previous partner from Tunnels, playing both acoustic and electric guitars. Leo Traversa is the el bassist and Danny Stone the acoustic one. The music can quickly be placed in the fusion genre, not the explosive or show-off type, but one firmly anchored in binary rhythms and grooves, teasing your brain cells or tapping feet with plenty of surprises, changes of tempi, subtle sonic assaults and musical maturity. A solid album! Review by "piotrlerouge" (Rate Your Music).
RATING: 7.25 / 10
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