Given the current state of the world, it’s comforting to have music to bring a little joy. One of the forthcoming albums which has piqued my interest is McStine & Minnemann, the self-titled debut by singer/multi-instrumentalist Randy McStine and drummer/composer Marco Minneman.
McStine (known for his work with Lo-Fi Resistance and numerous solo projects) and Minnemann (the drummer’s drummer, as well as a guitarist, vocalist, and keyboardist) initially set out to make an EP. Lucky for us, they decided to build on their obvious musical chemistry, resulting in one of the best rock albums of 2020.
The McStine song “Program” kicks off McStine & Minnemann in fine fashion. Though the song has existed in a different form from an earlier McStine release, Minnemann’s drumming, and the keyboard section add a new level of musical insanity to the song. “Falling From Grace” follows with equal integrity. The complex time signatures, overdubbed guitar, and unconventional song structure combines with Randy McStine’s urgent vocals to make a sound reminiscent of mid-’80s King Crimson meets Frank Zappa. Musically deep, yet lyrically accessible.
“Your Offenses” is more musically conventional. McStine providers a more direct lyric and vocal to match. Synthesizers and guitar combine to create a sophisticated sonic bed, and the guitar solos after the bridge are insane. Adding to the mix are Beach Boys-type oohs and aahs, yet it all conspires to produce one of my favorite songs on McStine & Minnemann.
“Catrina” shows even more depth than the proceeding tracks. A funky bass passage kicks off the song, which leads into a syncopated passage with guitar. Think King Crimson with a high level of funk (well, any funk). McStine’s vocal is unhinged and perfectly attuned to the music. The deluxe-edition of McStine & Minnemann, available for preorder on Bandcamp, includes commentary, along with Marco Minneman playing through each song. This is a must-have for fans of either musician.
“Fly” is a little more conventional. The song simmers with its laid-back beat, then things get sonically askew as the lyrics become more and more detached from reality. McStine and Minneman, who co-produced and engineered the album, have expertly used the contrast of moods and tempos throughout the album. Furthermore, the mix by Forrester Savell is equally superb.
[SOMETHING ELSE! INTERVIEW: Marco Minnemann goes in-depth on ‘Levin Minnemann Rudess,’ while offering insights into his work with Steven Wilson, Joe Satriani and Mike Keneally along the way.]
“Activate” shifts gears again, emerging as a more direct rocker similar to an upbeat Neal Morse Band song. Lyrically, it’s also direct and relatable. But that doesn’t mean there’s a lack of musical treasures: The bass and drums work out two-thirds into the song is priceless. This is yet another gem among gems.
The remarkable musical journey ends with “Voyager.” This heavy-prog piece combines orchestrated keyboard passages, crunchy guitars, demented vocals, and a turnaround which all but defies description. In fact, McStine & Minnemann itself almost defies description. The album is well crafted, melodic, and musically and lyrically challenging, while being utterly engaging.
‘McStine & Minnemann’ is available for preorder now via Bandcamp in multiple formats.
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