From the opening drum barrage of "Honet's Nest", it becomes quickly apparent that this debut release from Japanese fusion band Igzit-Nine is going to come at you full-throttle. Utilizing influences from fellow countryman Kenso and Side Steps, as well as bands such as UK, Brand X, and Return to Forever, Igzit-Nine have a heavy guitar/keyboard attack that ignites your speakers with plenty of acrobatic and intricate jazz-rock fusion.
As I mentioned, guitarist Noboru Inoue and keyboard player Emi Hatsusaka, both formerly members of Brain Salad, are the real stars here. Listen to Hatsusaka's blistering synth runs on the symphonic "Escapade", a wonderful progressive fusion piece that climaxes with some intense interplay between the keyboardist and Inoue's rampaging guitar lines. For a shot of sophisticated prog, check out the UK-ish "Sagent Staine", an exciting number featuring plenty of Holdsworth styled guitar passages from Inoue. The band dives into heavier fusion territory, much like Kenso has been doing the last few years, on "The Alchemist", complete with muscular guitar riffs and complex synth lines. "Aerostation" follows a similar path, although sprinkled with some interesting Gentle Giant-like keyboard passages from Hatsusaka, while "Day of the Nautilus" almost sounds like a long lost track from the band Bruford.
The original drummer and bassist that appeared on this debut CD have since left the band, and have been replaced by current Six North musians Hideyuki Shima (bass) and Hiroshi "GORI" Matsuda (drums). It will be interesting to hear the follow-up to this very impressive freshman release. Recommended to fusion lovers of all ages!
Track Listing
1) Honet's Nest
2) Day of the Nautilus
3) Easy Going
4) Escapade
5) Doomsday
6) Sagent Staine
7) The Alchemist
8) Aerostation
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