The Los Angeles-based Austrian jazz fusion guitarist on his jazz roots, playing in India and collaborations
In terms of changing musical tastes, Austrian jazz fusion guitarist Alex Machacek’s influences are something we can all relate to. The Los Angeles-based guitarist started out listening to heavy metal as a kid, but then got hooked to rock and jazz. Says Machacek in a video interview, “I also had a little rock phase where I was listening to Paul Gilbert, Nuno Bettencourt and Steve Vai. Then I discovered [jazz guitarist] Ben Monder, who’s still one of the best musicians at his peak in the guitar world.” Machacek plays three shows in India this week in Mumbai on October 31st and in Bengaluru on November 1st and 2nd.
Born to Czech parents, Machacek spent most of his time in Vienna in Austria and moved to the US only in 2003. He describes his first gigs in Los Angeles, “I received exactly what I asked for ”“ it was a big change. It took me a while to connect to people. I just went out and made friends.” A decade on, Machacek has gone on to collaborate with drummers such as Virgil Donati, Gary Husband and Marco Minneman. While his American shows usually include longtime friend and drummer Terry Bozzio [who has performed with guitarist Frank Zappa and nu-metal band KoRn, among others], bassist Rami Lakkis and drummer Dana Hawkins perform with Machacek in India.
Following his India tour, Machacek heads back to LA to finish work on his jazz group Fabulous Austrian Trio [FAT]’s next record. Says Machacek, “We recorded the basic tracks in August and we’re choosing takes now. So far, I have a very good feeling about it.”
Alex Machacek Trio India Tour
October 31st ”“ St. Andrews Auditorium, Mumbai. Entry: Rs 1,000 to Rs 2,000. Buy tickets here.
November 1st and 2nd ”“ Windmills Craftworks, Bengaluru. Entry: Rs 500 (standing), Rs 750 (seated). Buy tickets here.
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