Michael White

Set in the dystopian future of another world, Nightmares of Drum and Bass is the second in a highly anticipated series of packs by Michael White. Overflowing with gnarly synths, massive high energy beats, builds, fills and tops; accompanied by a series of fear inspiring, low slung choppy bass.

Although music like that heard on drummer Michael White's CD is marketed as "contemporary jazz," much of it sounds like Ramsey Lewis's recordings of 20 years ago. The hook-filled melodies, whiny sax by Everette Harp a few pleasing but vapid melodic solos, the token jazz tune and fadeouts whenever the music nears the five- to six-minute mark are all quite predictable and formulaic. There is nothing objectionable about the music but nothing at all memorable or unique about it either.

No chance Franks is going to change the formula now after all these years, but what a great formula it is. Michael Franks delivers another superb collection of idiosyncratic pop songs as only he can - this time out with a bit of a Brazilian flavored twist. Features Chuck Loeb (guitar, keyboards, programming), David Sancious (piano, keyboards), Jeff Lorber (keyboards, programming), Michael White (drums) and Eric Marienthal.