On paper, this meeting might seem to be an unlikely collaboration, as keyboardist/sound designer and jingle composer Jane Mangini aligns her faculties with heavy metal guitarist
Al Pitrelli. It's an interesting endeavor for sure, as Mangini acts as the central voice throughout this wonderfully constructed production. Here, the listener is treated to a set featuring the keyboardist's melodically tinged compositions and layered arrangements. Ultimately, the duo (along with six guest artists) embarks upon a genre-busting journey that works out rather nicely. Mangini is clearly the anchor, while
Pitrelli provides some of the fireworks via his torrid crunch chords and fluent soloing. He also provides a gritty edge to these generally crystalline-sounding pieces, teeming with techno-style beats, jazz, funk, rock, and more. Mangini fuses world music, catchy hooks, and daintily executed synths into the grand scheme of things amid several well-timed twists and turns. At times, the duo comes across as a progressive new age-type outfit, although the strong material and acute musicianship shine forth in grand fashion. ~ Glenn Astarita