Richard Cheese
Aperitive For Destruction

THE REVIEW

This fantastic and crazy American artist belongs to the musical realm that only Frank Zappa & Captain Beefheart could fill. In other words, universal music: genres do not exist. Much to the chagrin of "us" Metalheads, Punks, Rockers, etc...

I could end it all here, just adding that this is an album where several rock tracks are masterfully reinterpreted by him, complete with a small orchestra, in a jazz version. As stated on his website, "Sinatra singing a Nirvana song". To get an idea, think of his previous albums: THE WHITE ALBUM, THE BATTLE OF LAS VEGAS, BACK IN BLACK TIE, and the amusing and self-explanatory I'D LIKE A VIRGIN (see here: http://www.iloverichardcheese.com/images/rc-ILAV-cover-medium.jpg).

All in a perfect mix of irreverent music, piano, madness, syncopated rhythms, flair, and... martini. How to exhibit class while playing a cover album: maybe you don't like cover albums, but this one deserves it, believe me. I say this as a 70% jazz genre lover... it's fun, carefree, unusual: in short, worth a listen (at least)!

Slipknot fans might get furious hearing "People=shit" in a soft-jazz version, someone else might have a breakdown hearing him masterfully reinterpret "Welcome to the Jungle," not to mention the Metallica fans with the cover of "Enter Sandman". Moreover, I recommend "Sunday Bloody Sunday", "American Idiot", and the absolute masterpiece: "We Are the World"...!!!

An album that is beautiful, light, well-played, not too long, and free of the usual mental indulgences typical of many jazz musicians. (unexpectedly) recommended..