Full Review

MAC GOLLEHON & THE HISPANIC MECHANICS, Bite of the Street Review

Released on September 29, 2023, Bite of the Street intricately weaves together a rich tapestry of genres—from fiery Latin rhythms and the intricate polyrhythms of world music to the sophisticated harmonies of jazz and the bold textures of progressive rock, all underpinned by pulsating electronic beats. This eclectic fusion captures and celebrates the essence of global musical diversity, each genre contributing its unique flavor and demonstrating the universal language of music. Bite of the Street, with its rhythmic diversity and dance-infused journey marked by the iconic trumpet of Mac Gollehon, promises to captivate a broad audience, from world music lovers to aficionados of Latin rhythms and complex soundscapes, showcasing an unrivaled cultural mosaic that resonates with listeners worldwide.

With a rich legacy that includes contributions to over two hundred gold and platinum records, Gollehon’s extensive career has left a mark on the global music scene. His experiences and artistic collaborations have deeply influenced Bite of the Street, infusing it with authentic vibes and a palpable sense of global musical adventure. The album stands out as a melting pot of musical genres, combining the fiery Latin grooves, sophisticated jazz textures, and the boldness of progressive rock, all layered with modern electronic rhythms and cinematic elements clocked in a world music vibe. This eclectic blend showcases Gollehon’s trumpet mastery and reflects his skill in navigating and integrating diverse musical styles.

Gollehon is complemented on the six-song set by Eric Klaastad on bass, Jeanne Carno on drums, and Ismael Sanchez on percussion, each adding a unique flavor to the album’s overall sound. Additional contributions from Adan Perez on keyboards and Ariel Lawler’s vocals enrich the tracks, providing deeper layers of musical texture.

“Souled Out” sets the stage perfectly for the album’s high-energy journey with its immersive groove. The central riff, anchored by Gollehon’s infectious vocal melody, is the driving force. The drums enter later, enriching the groove with syncopated beats and driving hi-hats, making your body want to move. David Brenner’s innovative sound effects seamlessly blend with the music, adding subtle textures and accents that complement Gollehon’s beautiful trumpet improvisations. The overall vibe is unmistakably Latin, with its sensual rhythms and captivating syncopation. This electrifying opener cleverly utilizes Afro-Caribbean and dance elements at an upbeat tempo, hinting at the genre-bending and vibrant sounds to come on the album.

“High Drama” features a dynamic interplay between Sanchez’s percussion and Carno’s robust drumming, with Klaastad’s bass providing harmonic depth. Gollehon uses a Harmon mute in the second section for a contrasting sound color, enhancing the track’s dramatic effect. Gollehon’s trumpet solo, enriched with slight reverb, builds to a climactic sustained high note, showcasing his technical prowess and passionate expression. A fusion of Latin, funk, jazz, and dance, the track presents a fresh world music vibe, appealing broadly and engagingly. The bridge explodes with energy as the keys unleash a flurry of funky rhythmic sound effects that intertwine with the keyboards. Gollehon’s soaring trumpet solo, tinged with a touch of reverb, perfectly encapsulates the track’s essence, blending jazz and Latin influences before culminating in a breathtaking high note. This fusion of elements creates an unforgettable listening experience that flows between world and Latin jazz.

“Coming At You” is a world music explosion fueled by infectious energy. Seventies disco influences are evident in the swirling keyboards and driving bassline, propelling the track forward with a dancefloor-ready groove. Gollehon’s robust horn sections punctuate the soundscape, adding a layer of jazzy sophistication. Adam Perez’s additional keyboards bring creative sounds to enhance the experience, adding unexpected sonic textures. The real magic lies in how Sanchez’s percussion and Carno’s drums seamlessly integrate with the various styles present – disco, dance, fusion, and electric jazz – all melting together with the Latin rhythms to create a truly captivating soundscape. This unexpected twist keeps the listener engaged and showcases the album’s masterful genre-blending approach.

Drawing extensively from Latin and world music traditions, the album places these elements within a contemporary jazz and electronic framework. This integration diversifies the album’s sound palette and engages a global audience, resonating with modern cultural dynamics. Bite of the Street boldly challenges traditional genre boundaries, asserting itself as a seminal work in the evolution of modern world fusion. It symbolizes Gollehon’s innovative spirit and influence on the future direction of music, inviting the audience to explore new and exciting musical territories.

From the upbeat rhythms of “Coming At You” to the more contemplative “Sleepwalker,” the album traverses a wide emotional spectrum, reflecting its thematic richness and engaging listeners on multiple emotional levels. The track sequencing is meticulously curated, guiding the listener through a cohesive musical journey that is both captivating and thought-provoking, evoking a myriad of feelings from joy to introspection, ensuring a deeply engaging experience for the audience.

The album’s arrangements are sophisticated, with Gollehon’s trumpet threading through each track, providing a consistent musical anchor. The blend of traditional and electronic instruments creates a modern and timeless sound. Engineered by industry veterans and mixed and mastered by Bruce A. Miller, the album’s sound quality is impeccable, ensuring that each note and rhythm is crisply and clearly delivered.

Bite of the Street is a dynamic and energetic album that celebrates the convergence of diverse musical styles and cultures, highlighted by Mac Gollehon’s innovative trumpet work and creative compositions. This album is highly engaging with its jazz and world music fusion, inspiring listeners with its innovative approach and superb musicality while still motivating us to dance. That’s the short of it!