24 Tales is an album by guitarist Alex Machacek which is based on a 51-minute drum solo by German drummer Marco Minnemann.
[6] Machacek chose to divide Minnemann's recording into 24 sections which are heard without pause on the CD, and for which he composed music in a wide variety of styles, as reflected in the track titles.
While some might find this lacking in cohesion and true communality, there's a good spirit present, listenable and tuneful in spots, and inspired for many others.
"[1] John Kelman of All About Jazz awarded the album a full 5 stars, calling it "a true fusion masterpiece" and "a sure-fire contender for one of 2010's best," and praising its "cohesive depth without gravitas or self-indulgence.
"[6] AAJ's Ian Patterson also awarded the album 5 stars, stating: "This recording endlessly demonstrates that Machacek is able to merge breathtaking improvisation and serious composition in an altogether unique and spellbinding way.