Mn5 Beauty Farm by Martin Nitsch Quintet: A Funky, Soulful Trip That Stays With You
Alright, let’s talk about Mn5 Beauty Farm. Released in 2003 out of Austria, this album is like a warm hug from an old friend who happens to be really into jazz fusion. The Martin Nitsch Quintet brings together funk, soul, and jazz with just enough unpredictability to keep things fresh. It's not perfect—sometimes it feels like they're trying too hard—but man, when it clicks, it clicks. And yeah, the vibes are strong.
First off, can we talk about "Journey To You"? This track hit me right in the feels. It starts with this smooth electric piano riff that feels like lazy Sunday mornings, you know? Then Martin Nitsch’s guitar sneaks in, all cool and effortless, like he doesn’t even have to try. By the time the bassline kicks in (shoutout to Johannes Sigl for holding it down), I was already hooked. There’s something so dreamy yet grounded about this song—it’s the kind of tune that makes you want to close your eyes and just drift away. But then, halfway through, there’s this little twist where the percussion gets louder, almost tribal-like, and suddenly you’re somewhere else entirely. That contrast? Magic.
And oh, "Farm Beauty." What a vibe. This one feels like the soundtrack to a road trip you didn’t know you needed to take. The vibraphone work by Andreas Schiffer gives it this shimmering, almost hypnotic quality, while Jörg Höllwarth on drums keeps everything tight without being overbearing. Honestly, it’s kinda weird how much this track reminds me of summer nights—even though I first heard it in the middle of winter. Maybe it’s the way the layers build up slowly, giving you space to breathe before pulling you back in. Or maybe it’s just the name—“Farm Beauty” sounds like a place I’d wanna escape to.
The rest of the album follows suit, mixing moods and styles in ways that feel both experimental and heartfelt. Tracks like “Harvest” and “Axis Of Folly” show off Nitsch’s knack for crafting melodies that stick with you long after the music stops. And props to Andi Tentschert, who pulls double duty on keys and organ, adding depth to every track.
But here’s the thing about Mn5 Beauty Farm: it doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel. Instead, it takes what’s already great about jazz fusion and adds its own quirky spin. Sure, some parts feel a bit indulgent (because, hey, isn’t that what fusion’s all about?), but there’s a sincerity to it that keeps you coming back.
So yeah, if you’re into stuff that’s groovy, soulful, and just a little left-of-center, give this album a shot. Just don’t expect perfection—this ain’t background music; it demands your attention. And honestly? I’m glad it does.
Random thought to leave you with: Listening to this album feels like finding a secret garden hidden behind a wall of noise. Weird analogy? Maybe. But trust me, once you step inside, you won’t wanna leave.
