Jazz
Jazz Fusion
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The Comet Is Coming’s 2022 album, Hyper-Dimensional Expansion Beam, is a apocalyptic, high-energy assault of cosmic jazz-punk and rave-infused synth-fusion. Recorded at Peter Gabriel’s Real World Studios, the trio—led by saxophonist Shabaka Hutchings ("King Shabaka"), synth wizard Dan Leavers ("Danalogue"), and drummer Max Hallett ("Betamax")—constructs a wall of sound that feels like an intergalactic rave at the end of the universe.
The album’s soundscape is anchored by Danalogue’s massive analog synth rig, pumping out earth-shaking sub-bass, industrial arpeggiators, and distorted, acid-house textures that replace traditional bass guitar. Betamax drives the tracks with relentless, hyper-precise drumming—blending punk-rock urgency with electronic breakbeats, driving house tempos, and intricate jazz polyrhythms.
Cutting through the electronics is Shabaka Hutchings’ tenor saxophone, processed through heavy pitch-shifters, delays, and distortion pedals. Hutchings trades smooth jazz melodies for explosive, rhythmic riffs, shrieking microtonal bends, and hypnotic, circular-breathed motifs that function like electronic synth leads. Engineered with punchy, sub-heavy dynamics and pristine instrument separation, the album delivers a raw, visceral, and futuristic soundscape that bridges the gap between avant-garde jazz, dub, and heavy club culture.