John Macko, renowned bassist of Fifth Angel, proudly presents his long-anticipated project album Zero-Point Machine – a bold and masterful exploration beyond the power metal boundaries he is known for. Years in the making, the record showcases musical ideas and compositions that diverged from Fifth Angel’s trademark sound, allowing Macko to fully embrace the diverse influences of his youth and transform them into a unique artistic statement.
Blending progressive rock, jazz fusion, and modern metal, Zero-Point Machine delivers a rich, cinematic listening experience that guides the audience through an epic musical journey. To bring this vision to life, Macko enlisted an exceptional team of musicians: guitarist and sound designer Adrian Thessenvitz (Ad Infinitum), vocalist and lyricist Georgie Chapple, and long-time bandmate Ken Mary (Alice Cooper, House Of Lords, Fifth Angel, Flotsam & Jetsam) on drums, forming a lineup capable of translating the album’s ambitious musical scope into reality.
Speaking about the creation of the album, Macko reflects: “This project allowed me to explore musical expressions that didn’t fit within the framework of Fifth Angel. These songs represent parts of my musical identity that I’ve carried with me for years, and finally bringing them to life with such incredible musicians has been an amazing and emotional experience.”
Stream / purchase Zero-Point Machine here: https://artists.landr.com/057829968554
The production process itself became an essential part of the artistic vision. Macko teamed up with Thessenvitz to shape the album’s sonic identity, before handing the mixes to renowned producer Jacob Hansen at Hansen Studios, Denmark, whose work elevated the final result with clarity, power, and modern depth.
Adding further character to the record are several notable guest performances: guitarist Brent Barker contributes searing lead work on “Utopia,” “Violence,” and “Anastasia,” while Steve Conley and Jim Dofka both appear on the dynamic and technically driven track “Singularity,” expanding the album’s musical palette and intensifying its expressive range.
Two official videos have already been released, offering a powerful introduction to the project’s sonic and emotional depth:
–WORTHLESS (Official Video) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6gJIWvbI5V0
–UTOPIA (Official Video) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QlbD8itLTFc
Both tracks highlight the album’s stylistic range – from intense modern metal riffing to progressive atmospheres and melodic sophistication – showcasing the creative chemistry of the musicians involved.
Featuring striking cover artwork by Henry Moreno (HHGRAPHX LLC), Zero-Point Machine stands as a testament to artistic freedom, virtuosity, and creative evolution. The album invites listeners to experience a sophisticated blend of styles executed with passion and technical excellence.
JOHN MACKO MUSIC online:
https://www.facebook.com/john.macko.39/
https://www.youtube.com/@JohnMackoMusic
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