ISOTOPE 2170

Isotope 2170 The Unstable Molecule (Thrill Jockey) (star) (star) 1/2

Just as finishing touches are being put on the forthcoming Tortoise disc, Tortoise members Dan Bitney, John Herndon, Jeff Parker and friends have stepped out with their latest project, Isotope 2170. Isotope 2170 explores various permutations of textured jazz and fusion funk vamps, capably capitalizing on dub-reggae studio techniques and genre-blending arrangements. Though not nearly as soulless as Tortoise, Isotope 2170 is also not as engrossing. Raw rhythms and cool jazz overtones highlight the players’ talents, but “The Unstable Molecule” fails to succeed as more than interesting atmosphere.