Michael Janz is an L.A-based composer and performer. After years of playing music in a variety of forms and groups (including his current stint in The New Division), this is his first solo effort. Janzie is the semi-pseudonym. And the mutated melodies found here are both a testament to his skill and his comfort in the experimental.

Janzie Speaking in False Languages (Edgetone)

These songs are compiled from electronic improvisations, an almost incalculable number of samples (most less than a second long and whatever else Janz found lying around). More than sonic mosaics, these are complete songs. They have structure and progress logically from beginning to end. And while that logic might be difficult to discern, there's always a spine pointing the way forward.

More contemplative than manic, these pieces tend toward surprises. Janz even finds music within radio dial modulation, and he never lets things get dull. Edgetone is known for experimental artists, and Janz fits right in. But this is more accessible than many who ply these waters. The ideas are expressed forthrightly and with style.

Of course, this is hardly music for the masses. The ruminations tend to stay within the confines of the song in question, but Janz finds all sorts of ways to press against his own strictures. It's almost as if he's seeing how much his pre-set boundaries can withstand. Perhaps the best way to explain that is to say that he's "in there", not "out there". No matter. Wherever he is, he finds something interesting. Quite the wander.

Jon Worley