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Rating: Great |
The album "Surprise Surprise" by the Icelandic fusion band Mezzoforte, released in 1982, is a groundbreaking work that blurs the lines between jazz, funk, and pop with playful precision. With this album, Mezzoforte firmly established themselves in Europe and beyond, thanks to their masterful instrumentation, innovative compositions, and the hit "Garden Party." The album illustrates the virtuosity and creativity of this band, which succeeds in making technically advanced music accessible and rhythmically irresistible.
The context and style
Mezzoforte, founded in 1977 in Reykjavik, distinguished themselves early on with their unique approach to fusion. They combined elements of jazz and funk with melodic pop influences and a fresh, Scandinavian approach to rhythm and arrangement. On Surprise Surprise, we hear a band operating at their creative peak. Although primarily instrumental, the album is packed with narrative power, as if each song paints its own scene.
The album features a perfect blend of up-tempo grooves and more subdued, atmospheric pieces. This variation keeps it exciting and dynamic, without ever feeling incoherent. The production is sparklingly clear and emphasizes the versatility of the instruments, from driving bass lines and subtle keyboards to funky guitar licks and energetic horn sections.
Track-by-track highlights
The album opens with the energetic title track "Surprise Surprise," an up-tempo jazz-funk number that immediately sets the tone. It features a rhythmic drive and complex harmonies, complemented by a sparkling solo from keyboardist Eythor Gunnarsson. The groove is carried by a tight rhythm section, consisting of Johann Asmundsson (bass) and Gulli Briem (drums), who demonstrate impressive chemistry.
Next up is "Garden Party," one of the album's most iconic tracks and the band's breakthrough. This upbeat and infectious track, with its unforgettable melody and perfectly balanced arrangement, showcases Mezzoforte's ability to combine technical prowess with accessibility. The brass arrangements and funky guitars create an energetic and catchy vibe that immediately gets you moving.
"Early Autumn" offers a nice contrast to the previous tracks. It's a subdued, almost melancholic composition that emphasizes atmosphere and melody. The warm piano notes and subtle guitar accents create a calming moment on the album, highlighting Mezzoforte's versatility.
The fourth track, "Action Man," revs up the energy again with a driving groove and a catchy bassline. This song is full of exciting dynamic changes and technical feats, yet remains danceable and engaging. The horn section plays a prominent role, while the guitars enhance the funky feel.
Depth and dynamics
What makes Surprise Surprise so impressive is how the album utilizes the band members' technical virtuosity to serve the musical narrative. Each song has a clear structure and emotional core, without feeling like a showcase of individual skills. The solos, however brilliant, always feel organic and integrated into the whole.
The album builds on the tradition of bands like Weather Report and The Crusaders, but Mezzoforte adds a fresh, unique touch that sets them apart. Their Icelandic heritage shines through in the way they play with space and texture, giving their music a unique quality.
The musical highlight
While each track offers something special, "Garden Party" remains the absolute highlight. The song not only boasts an irresistible groove but also contains one of the most memorable melodies in the jazz-funk genre. Its success on the international charts, particularly in the UK, was not only a breakthrough for Mezzoforte but also a rare moment when an instrumental track managed to reach a wide audience.
The album's legacy
Surprise Surprise is more than a collection of songs; it's a time capsule of a band perfectly in tune with their creative vision. The album not only put Mezzoforte on the map but also inspired countless other musicians in the fusion genre. The album's success demonstrated that instrumental music could be commercially successful, as long as it was authentic and engaging.
Conclusion
Mezzoforte's Surprise Surprise is a masterpiece of the fusion genre. It combines virtuosity and technical prowess with melodic accessibility and rhythmic finesse. Each track contributes to a cohesive whole that is both danceable and musically profound. With highlights like "Garden Party" and "Early Autumn," the band proves they can effortlessly bridge the gap between jazz, funk, and pop. This album is a must-have not only for fusion fans but for anyone who appreciates inventive and exciting music.
Surprise Surprise, more than forty years after its release, remains a timeless classic that confirms Mezzoforte's class and creativity.
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= Track List =
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