Album Review: Transmogrify by Adam Rudegeair
Alright, let’s talk about Transmogrify, the 2005 jazz gem from Melbourne’s own Adam Rudegeair. Released under Funk Noir Records, this album is a wild ride through grooves, moods, and some serious keyboard wizardry. If you’re into jazz that doesn’t take itself too seriously but still packs a punch, this one’s for you.
First off, I gotta shout out “We Like It Live.” Man, this track hits different. It’s got that raw, unfiltered energy like they just hit record and let it rip. The piano work here is nuts—Adam’s fingers are basically doing acrobatics all over the keys. And the rhythm section? Tight as hell. You can tell these guys were vibing hard in the studio. What sticks with me most is how loose yet locked-in everything feels. It’s like hanging out with mates who just happen to be ridiculously talented musicians.
Then there’s “Argyle Girl,” which is honestly just smooth AF. This tune has this sneaky little bassline that creeps up on you, and before you know it, you’re swaying along even if you didn’t mean to. There’s something cinematic about it too—it kinda feels like walking down a neon-lit street at night, maybe past a jazz club where the music spills onto the sidewalk. Honestly, every time I hear it, I’m transported somewhere else entirely. Not bad for a random Tuesday afternoon, eh?
The rest of the tracks hold their own too. “Monk’s Nightmare” throws down some Monk-inspired chaos without losing its cool, while “Swan Street Shuffle” is exactly what it sounds like—a laid-back stroll with enough swagger to keep things interesting. Oh, and props to whoever came up with the title “Out There Bout There”—classic Aussie humor right there.
What makes Transmogrify stand out isn’t just the technical skill (though yeah, that’s undeniable). It’s the vibe. It’s fun, quirky, and doesn’t try to be anything other than what it is—a snapshot of a killer band doing their thing in mid-2000s Australia. Jazz purists might raise an eyebrow at some of the funkier moments, but honestly, who cares? Music should make you feel something, and this album does that in spades.
Final thought: Listening to Transmogrify feels like finding an old vinyl in a dusty record shop and realizing it’s gold. Like, why isn’t everyone talking about this?! Anyway, next time you’re stuck in traffic or need a pick-me-up, throw this on. Your ears will thank you—and so will your soul. Or whatever.
