The small Belgian record label Carbon 7 is run by the former Univers Zero bassist Guy Segers, and it has marked itself as a supplier of stylish experimental music rooted in both rock, jazz and contemporary music. Modified Reality by the multi-instrumentalist Franck Balestracci in many ways represents what is typical Carbon 7 vision: To create music appearing as both challenging and striking. The album is not immediately accessible and it contains sections that is demanding for the listener. But give it time and you will find many layers and nuances making it difficult not to be impressed by it all.

Balestracci utilizes modern electronics heavily and creates a sonic universe spanning from complex and dismal electronic rock (in a way as if Univers Zero should have joined Nine Inch Nails), epic soundscapes, electronic excursions, mutated world music and pure sound sceneries. In other words, a musical diversity creating a record that never ceases to surprise, a component that many of the so-called progressive artists of today seem to have forgotten.

Assisted by Guy Segers on bass and vocals, Marianne Denoïa on violin (she has also played for a short while in Univers Zero) and Reginald rigaux (from Present and Univers Zero) on guitar, Balestracci uses a broad brush, and the appealing production makes it even more interesting.If you do nok know Balestracci already, Modified Reality should be a perfect starting point in order to get to know the man better.

© 2007 Tarkus Magazine

Back to index