Mack West

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Multi-instrumentalist Zachary Mechlem's heritage is Eastern European Gypsy. This is indicative of his far-flung stylistic leaning, which wanders from India to Spain and lifts sound from all points in between. His latest project, Mack West, has found an unexpected home in the Old American West, saturating both music and subject matter with romantic Cowboy imagery.

This is the culmination of an idea Mechlem has had brewing for a while. His solo set has been creeping in this direction, showcasing the Country-tinged songs he had been producing, some for a soundtrack in the works. His music lends itself to visualization, so it's no surprise that the film medium has influenced him.

With his cavernous baritone and gothic imagery, comparisons to Johnny Cash are inevitable. "I did some Cash and got great feedback," says Mechlem, "but I didn't want to focus too much on that, especially now that he's passed on."

Mack West is a long way from typical Country music, anyway. Mechlem's classical guitar flair and a rhythm section that subtly hints at Rock give their music a unique and intangible twist. The compositions are also a far cry from the formulaic nature of what passes for Country today. Much more Jazz influenced, Mack West gives grooves and melodies adequate breathing room, and vocals are simply another part of the palette instead of the primary focus.