ZAQ - Zaq (2003)

ZAQ’s self-titled album Zaq is a jazz-rock and fusion release that blends acoustic instrumentation with electronic textures and progressive compositional structures. Released in 2003 on Mellow Records, the album emphasizes rhythmic complexity, improvisational interplay, and atmospheric development, placing it within the modern European fusion tradition. The music moves fluidly between structured themes and exploratory passages, allowing each instrument to contribute equally to the overall sonic landscape.

The ensemble features Antonio Marra on drums, Massimo Pinca on electric and double bass, Gianluca Milanese on flute, piccolo, chalumeau, and EWI, Alessandro Monteduro on percussion, and Marco Della Gatta on piano and synthesizers. This combination creates a layered sound where acoustic timbres and electronic elements interact seamlessly. Tracks such as “Epimeteo” and “Pietre Sugli Specchi” highlight the group’s rhythmic sophistication, while “Maree” and “Il Bello E Il Brutto” expand into more expansive and atmospheric territory.

Zaq stands out as a cohesive fusion work that balances technical musicianship with a strong sense of mood and narrative progression, offering a modern interpretation of jazz-rock aesthetics.

Tracklist:
1. In A Club - 4:32
2. Aria Antica - 4:24
3. Epimeteo - 4:27
4. Joe - 6:51
5. Maree - 8:25
6. Pietre Sugli Specchi - 6:22
7. Il Bello E Il Brutto - 8:12
8. J-Mirror - 6:12

Personnel:
Antonio Marra - drums
Massimo Pinca - electric bass, double bass
Gianluca Milanese - flute, piccolo flute, chalumeau, EWI
Alessandro Monteduro - percussion
Marco Della Gatta - piano, synthesizer