 D-MADNESS
Equinox / Funk Fest
Self Released
(Release Date: 3/5/09)
Lorenzo Dwayne Jackson, better known as D-Madness, has been described as the Austin version of Stevie Wonder. The comparison goes well beyond the dark pair of sunglasses, more in line with his amazing musical talent. On his latest two-disc release, Equinox / Funk Fest, not only did D-Madness produce, write, and arrange each track, he also plays almost every instrument in each song.
D-Madness is well known in Austin for his ability to play drums, bass, and keyboard at the same time. His one-man-band concept is showcased on Equinox / Funk Fest through jazzy, funk, and hip-hop beats. D-Madness opens with instrumental track “Precession,” stinging together a slap-bass showcase that brings Jaco Pastorius skill to Bootsy Collins. The bass and drum meltdown allows for a mind-expanding moment before gearing towards a jazzier groove in “Plenty,” which features ethereal R&B vocals from Yadira Brown (who also adds her dreamy nature to “Chocolate”). Throughout Equinox we see D-Madness’ double nature: he creates the core tracks alone then brings an array of singers or musicians to jump in and add a different element to his tunes. On “Take One” D’s slow tempo drums are joined by Andrae Van Buren’s smooth alto saxophone, allowing for a rich jazz/blues rhythm to fill the air. Well-known Austin MC Bavu Blakes adds some ‘90s flavored hip-hop to the jazzy mix on “The Fix,” the first of several rap tracks, which also finds Tray God Shekhem, Brian Mitchell, and Michael Craig Young dropping flows to D-Madness’ rhythm machine.
On the second disc, Funk Fest, D exposes his groovier side. The appropriately titled album consists of funk-inspired jazz rhythms. Each track, such as “D-Funk,” is bass guitar driven and that element alone really allows for the funk to set in. D-Madness even includes an unorthodox rendition of “Amazing Grace” that carries an offbeat bass line over a composition of drum and keyboard notes.
D-Madness is a buzz-worthy character who has already earned the praises of Erykah Badu, Bernie Worrell, and Will Calhoun. Equinox / Funk Fest is unique and exemplifies his originality and talents. This two-disc set is definitely worth picking up.
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