To start off, I was a bit taken aback by the name of this group, Dr. Wankel’s Convergent Infinity Machine, and did not know what to expect of their album, Live Compilation.
But odd names and reservations aside, I popped the CD in for a listen.
What I heard was even more surprising than the group’s name, a refined sound with a sort of quality that is known only by the groups that play mostly non-lyrical music. I say mostly because some vocals are found on this CD as well as in other music of similar styles.
Non-lyrical music has a special quality because, unlike other styles of music, it has no words to rely on to carry the sound through. The music must have a good quality because there is nothing there to cover for it.
This entire CD was recorded live at Wild Wing Cafe in Atlanta in September. The quality of sound is excellent for a live recording.
The album starts off with an introduction track explaining the second track on the album, which is titled “Snoopy and the Baron, ” which is my favorite track on the album. It holds a special meaning and reminds me of my childhood and brings back memories.
The third track, “The Brittle Edge” carries on DWCIM’s great musical quality while exploring another direction of music possibilities.
“Sir-Kull-Sir-Kuss,” the fourth track, digs even deeper into the group’s great musical talent and appreciation.
The last track on the album, “The Orient Xpress,” is several minutes of good, relaxing music.
The band is a trio comprised of Ben Ereddia on piano, keyboards and vocals, Bill Reinersmann on drums, percussion and vocals and Jonathan Lee on bass, guitar, vocals, bass pedals and mandolin.
Despite the infancy of the band, which is still in its first year, the members are experienced musicians who have been playing for more than 15 years. Lee is a Johnson City native and a former ETSU student.
Among their inspirations, the group lists artists such as King Crimson, the Mahavishnu Orchestra, Pink Floyd, ELO, Phish and Mozart. It is no wonder that their sound is so unique.
Dr. Wankel’s Convergent Infinity Machine will be performing at the Down Home at 9 p.m. Thursday.
On a scale of one to 10 with 10 being the best, I would give this album an 8.

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