If there was a musical equivalent to the great Stanley Kubrick, then I would imagine him to be bandleader and composer Nathan Parker Smith. Together with his band, the Nathan Parker Smith Large Ensemble, their debut CD Not Dark Yet embodies an eccentric quirkiness that defies categorization, much like the legendary cinematographer.
Smith formed the Nathan Parker Smith Large Ensemble in 2009, bringing a fresh approach to the traditional big band concept. Comprised of 17 pieces, (five saxophonists, four trumpeters, four trombonists and a rhythm section including a Rhodes pianist, electric guitarist, bassist and drummer) these musicians deliver a mix of jazz, progressive rock, contemporary classical and Euro-style heavy metal for a sound that is undeniably unique, but not for the faint of heart.
The opening track, “Mega,” sends a jolt to your system and foreshadows just how massive and unpredictable the album will be. Every composition comes with so many twists, turns and variations you’ll end up with whiplash thanks to the start-stop rhythms, melody changes and timing shakeups. Of course, I can’t forget to mention the slight improvisations inserted within these parameters that also add to the general bedlam.
Those who are not familiar with the experimental or avant-garde music genres might write Not Dark Yet off as chaotic nonsense. However, fans of artists like Medeski Martin & Wood or Darcy James Argue’s Secret Society will appreciate Smith’s stunning creativity. Every arrangement oozes intensity and passion, despite the heavy discordant sounds that, ironically, are pretty pleasant to listen to!
Just as surprising is how well rehearsed and extremely focused the playing is. The whole record comes in under a little more than half an hour. Each track gets to the point with no unnecessary filler which only makes the heavily layered harmonies and rhythms that are executed all the more impressive.
Some of my favorite numbers include “Dark Matter” (despite the fact that the thriller-like intro and asynchronous metal chords kept me looking over my shoulder the entire time); “Creature Rebellion” (for whatever reason this funky groove had me imagining the musicians playing in the midst of a zombie apocalypse); “Solace” (even though all the horns went off in every direction, somehow it was like they were actually playing together) and the wave of flow in the closing track, “Carrington Super Flare,” as it bids listeners an epic farewell.
After listening to Not Dark Yet, it’s safe to say that this is a brazen, dark and powerful record that evokes a deep space quality. It is thrilling, if a little eerie, to experience. Smith has thrown down the gauntlet with this thundering debut, and I’m excited to see what’s to come.
For more information on Not Dark Yet, please visit
Nathan Parker Smith’s website or follow him on Facebook and Twitter.