Gary Topper and Symmetry Are Bringing Jazz, Funk and Sci-Fi to the Same Party

Memphis composer, arranger and bandleader Gary Topper has never been interested in playing it safe. On May 22, he and his collective Symmetry release ‘The Bebopper’s Guide to the Galaxy,’ a full-length album on vinyl, CD and digital platforms through Topper’s Qausimodal imprint via Select-O-Hits. It follows ‘Night Shade,’ their EP from earlier this year, and it’s a considerable leap forward.

Inspired by the humor and cosmic absurdism of sci-fi literature, Topper built the album around a five-track opening suite that tears through “Hyperspace Detour,” “We Apologize For The Inconvenience,” “Flying Over Islington,” “Z’s Revenge” and “Don’t Panic.” These aren’t concept-album gimmicks. They’re fully realized compositions packed with adventurous harmonies, rhythmic left turns and room for soloists to stretch out and mean it.

Described as a “fearless blend of jazz, rock, funk, reggae and Latin influences,” ‘The Bebopper’s Guide to the Galaxy’ earns every word of that. “Medicine Man” paints a vivid portrait of a shaman in the wild. “Marley’s Dream” takes a reggae-rooted path through layers of fantasy and earned calm. Together, the seven tracks cover serious ground without ever losing their sense of play.

Topper himself is featured on tenor sax, soprano sax and flute, and he’s the sole composer, arranger and producer of every track. His resume speaks for itself: he’s backed Keith Richards, Al Green, Ray Charles, Stevie Wonder, Ella Fitzgerald, Tony Bennett, Patti LaBelle and Toots Hibbert, among many others. His arranging work has landed on film soundtracks including ‘You’ve Got Mail,’ ‘Meet Joe Black’ and ‘Analyze This.’

Symmetry’s lineup is stacked. Musicians who’ve performed with Aretha Franklin, Wynton Marsalis, Justin Timberlake, Hugh Masekela and Levon Helm fill out the six-piece brass and reed section alongside bass, guitar, keys and drums. That collective depth doesn’t just show on paper. It drives every moment of this record with instinct and precision.

‘The Bebopper’s Guide to the Galaxy’ arrives May 22 on vinyl, CD and all digital platforms.

Track List:

Side A

  1. Hyperspace Detour (4:59)
  2. We Apologize For The Inconvenience (5:16)
  3. Flying Over Islington (5:15)
  4. Z’s Revenge (6:29)

Side B

  1. Don’t Panic (6:55)
  2. Medicine Man (full version) (7:01)
  3. Marley’s Dream (7:55)