JEFF NOVOTNY JAZZPRJKT releases new single “Cygnus X-1”

Experimental Music is not for everyone, but some artists try to make it accessible to a wider group. If you hold on to such artists, you might as well understand the beauty of Experimental music, and who knows – you’ll be calculating would be the elements in an Avant-Garde song.

Jeff Novotny’s project – Jeff Novotny JAZZPRJKT, is an experience worth relishing if you want to get started with experimental music. His compositions are a bit closer to what you might be listening to – viz, Animals as Leaders, Mr Bungle or Frank Zampa – but, the thing is Jeff’s compositions has a more intricate theme. His latest release is an epic 15-minute track entitled “Cygnus X1”.

If you were able to relate the name of the song to Science, then you are not wrong. Cygnus X1 is the name of the black hole located at the centre of the Earth. So, what does it have to do with the song? Well, the entire song is revolved around that concept, or at least around outer space. You will find that out in the very first minute of the track. Opening sequences are eerie electronic noises. This is where Jeff brings in the authenticity – although the majority of the sound effects are made in a studio, there are some like the opening sequences that are the sound of a radio transmission. Too much for originality? We are just getting started!

The intent moving forward with the song, or his career, in general, was to combine as many styles possible to give the songs a unique touch. What he does is that the genres are not merely copied but something of his own is added to ensure novelty. This song, itself is based on Red Hot Chilli Pepper’s ” Breaking the Girl”, but it would have been extremely hard for you to recognise if it wasn’t me revealing it(I got to know from Jeff). Elements such as Rock, Metal, Ska, Jazz, Bepop, Swing and even Pop are toyed with the said personality/novelty through his creative songwriting. “Cygnus X1” might look like 15 minutes on the paper, but to be honest, you won’t notice the time flying – considering the number of elements you’ll be exposed to.

Yes, there are some things that I would have considered – like breaking the 15-minute track into “Acts” or parts – to make everything look like a concept album – just like them Prog Gods. But, after hearing Jeff’s opinion on not imitating, it seems like this was the best decision. However, the reason why I would have wanted him to break things down is that it will be easier for a person to remember the elements if they were represented as individual tracks, or else the best parts won’t get enough attention. Like the one through the 9-minute mark, a perfect break to conventional songwriting – but amidst all the chaos this little part may get lost in the mix.

If you like trying something different, Jeff would be my first suggestion. His music has a lot of potential, and undoubtedly his project will make it big. I’m looking forward to the next one. I’m curious to see if the plan is to release more of such songs rather than a dedicated EP or Full-length. Or maybe these are just teasers for the concept album in the works. Either way, I’m excited! 2021 is continuing to surprise me with such elegant releases!