Julian Taylor’s ‘Tech Noir’ a fusion of jazz, funk and energy

Ian Steer —

Julian Taylor performs a fusion that goes nuclear in this review by local music fan and writer Ian Steer.

Technically, fusion is the most powerful form of nuclear energy. Similarly, the fusion of so many cultures in Canada has produced one of the most powerful collectives of souls on Earth. Now, with the fusion of musical forms that come together so perfectly in Julian Taylor’s new CD titled Tech Noir, the musical energy in this country and perhaps the world is increasing at least another notch toward a higher level. (See his Never Gonna Give You Up video below)

Try “No Guns,” available singly via iTunes, and track 2 of 12 on the CD. It’s beat is primal, beyond classical funk, soul, and R&B. Yet it’s melody is equally mesmerizing. Hear the horn section? It’s as sweet as any since Blood Sweat and Tears.

Now listen to Taylor’s vocals. “I don’t need no guns for my protection.” There’s more to Tech Noir than another pretty musical face.

Every track hits. From “You Say,” a CBC song-of-the-week leading off, followed by “No Guns” and “Do Your Remember,” all are toe tapping, knee slapping, and instantly memorable. Yet quiet and thoughtful songs are also here, from “Carry Me Home” which honour’s the passing of Taylor’s grandfather, to the jazzy, fluid conclusion, “Love Connection,” prompting CBC to call Tech Noir “all eclectic and all encompassing.”

Given five stars by the Winnipeg Free Press, Tech Noir brings Taylor his highest musical acclaim since he was the front man for Staggered Crossing in the late 2000s. For this year’s Taste of the Danforth, his Julian Taylor band was the closing act for both nights. Nevertheless, this success has not stopped Taylor, who hails from the Danforth Avenue Greek Town neighborhood, from performing regularly for St. Lawrence Neighbourhood area residents. Taylor’s solo act is entertaining, like the music, its soul, and the man himself.

He can be seen at Fionn MacCool’s on The Esplanade on occasional Thursday evenings, and at Against The Grain on the waterfront on occasional Fridays. Check ahead but check soon. Taylor’s long hard road to overnight success is winding up, because Tech Noir is revving up its critics, its fans, and our collective souls alike.