Step into the whimsical world of Streaking In Tongues, where melodies dance like fireflies and rhythms ripple like gentle streams. In their latest instrumental offering, Einstein’s Napkin, this father-son duo, Ronnie and Elliott Ferguson, deliver a musical escapade inspired by the poetic musings of Marty Achatz. But don’t be fooled by the lack of lyrical content—this album is a playful and soul-stirring journey through the imagination, set to a soundtrack of eclectic instrumentation and boundless creativity.
Picture this: Ronnie and Elliott, huddled together in their musical den, guitars and keyboards at the ready, crafting melodies that echo the whimsy of Achatz’s poetry. It’s a scene straight out of a Wes Anderson film, with the duo channeling the creative camaraderie of other musical families like The Avett Brothers or The Marsalis Family. And let’s not forget the essential inclusion of saxophone extraordinaire Patrick Booth, whose soaring melodies add an extra layer of magic to the mix.
From the opening notes of “Lumbering Along Bluff Creek,” it’s clear that Einstein’s Napkin is no ordinary instrumental album. The music sways and swells like a gentle breeze, carrying listeners away on a journey of sonic discovery. Tracks like “Hovering in Jacklight” and “Triangle Stacked on Triangle” showcase the duo’s knack for crafting melodies that are both intricate and infectious, while “God’s Eyelashes” sees Booth’s saxophone take center stage, weaving through the music like a musical muse, giving listeners sax solos in as many different ways as one should come to expect from a Streaking In Tongues record.
But it’s not all whimsy and wonder—there’s a depth and complexity to Einstein’s Napkin that belies its lighthearted exterior. Ronnie and Elliott’s musical prowess is on full display throughout the album, with their intricate arrangements and masterful instrumentation drawing listeners in and holding them captive until the very last note fades away.
And let’s take a moment to appreciate the album’s production. Mastering engineer Fred Thomas has worked his magic once again, imbuing each track with a warmth and clarity that is simply sublime. The result is an album that sounds as crisp and clear as a spring morning, inviting listeners to lose themselves in its melodic embrace.
There’s no denying that Einstein’s Napkin is a delightful romp through the imagination—an instrumental journey that is as playful as it is profound. With its infectious melodies, evocative arrangements, and the essential inclusion of Patrick Booth’s saxophone, Streaking In Tongues has crafted a musical masterpiece that is sure to delight listeners of all ages.
You can experience the enchanting sounds of Einstein’s Napkin by Streaking In Tongues on Bandcamp, where you can support the artists directly. Additionally, the album is available for streaming on all major platforms, ensuring that listeners everywhere can embark on this whimsical musical journey. So don’t hesitate—dive in and let the melodies of Einstein’s Napkin sweep you away on an unforgettable sonic adventure.
Claire Uebelacker