Wally Schnalle's Idiot Fish

Idiot Fish is the 9th release from drummer/composer Wally Schnalle. It’s a project that has been brewing since 2010 when it first appeared live at San Jose Jazz Fest. After many incarnations, technological learning curves and compositional evolutions it has finally recorded. Featuring Frank Martin on keyboards, Hristo Vitchev on guitar and Joe Costatnini on bass, it’s a fusion tour de force. Schnalle’s compositions are fueled by the best of fusion traditions yet they are fresh and forward-looking. And he uses the latest computer/music technology to achieve a dream he has been striving to realize for decades of playing harmonic content as well as other sounds directly from his usual acoustic drum set. Intriguing compositions, virtuosic soloists and cutting edge tech come together to create an intriguing musical experience.



Press Quotes
"Ever wonder what would have happened if Josef Zawinul had teamed with Pat Metheny instead of Wayne Shorter to form Weather Report? I think it would sound a lot like this hot album by drummer Wally Schnalle."
Greorge Harris, JazzWeekly

"... fusion just doesn’t get any better than this. … it’s most strongly recommended that you listen to this entire sonic extravaganza with headphones on, at least for the first sitting. I give Wally & his crew a MOST HIGHLY RECOMMENDED"
Rotcod Zzaj, Improvijazzation.com

“Working sound bytes into delicate infusions of soul, jazz, and electronica, Schnalle nourishes an integrated field of sound that at once evokes seventies nostalgia and progressive futurism.”
Tyran Grillo, AllAboutJazz.com

“Idiot Fish” is a dramatic assault on the outposts of fusion who many considered abandoned. In fact, fusion remains alive and kicking on this album with Schnalle and company kicking it hard. Schnalle knows how to write it and this band most assuredly knows how to play it.”
Travis Rogers, JazzTimes