After lots of listening to 'Designfloor' from the folks at Equuslive, I've discovered it is growing 'off' me rather than on. Pity, because the musicianship is marvellous. Each musician and singer adds his or her kindness to the understanding sound and its expression. The production is very slick and some of the tracks are cool. However, the flow of the CD is jarring and it begs for a kinder track listing. Meant as an experimental outlet 'Designfloor' delivers some original jazz/funk, rock instrumentals and songs. Some remind me, lovingly, of Tower Of Power. I love the horn sections and the catchy ninetysix degrees gives room for tuba passion. I also liked the track elipsis, with its funkiness and eager, yet tender fretless bass encouraging me to press the re-play button. Ought it to have been track one perhaps? I wish them musically good things, but mostly I found that 'Designfloor' doesn't keep me wanting more. Available from www.equuslive.co.nz

Related Information

Artists

Equus

Issues

NZ Musician

April/May 2004