Multi-instrumentalist and master of self-promotion, Frank Macchia has been very busy. Since moving to L.A. 16 years ago, Macchia has been weaving his way into the inner fabric of the Los Angeles music scene. The San Francisco native and Berklee graduate has been busy in the studios, writing and arranging for feature films such as Superman Returns, The Fantastic Four, Austin Powers:Goldmember, Santa Clause 2, and television shows Nickelodeon's Oh Yeah Cartoons, Disney's Oliver Twist, and the Tonight Show.

An adept composer and instrumentalist, Frank Macchia has penned compositions on at least 3 stellar releases. Animals, Mo Animals, and Emotions all feature Macchia alongside some of the biggest names in the business. Guitarist Grant Geissman, Drummer Vinnie Colaiuta and trumpet phenom Wayne Bergeron all add significant contributions to Macchia’s compositions. The writing is dense and intellectual at times but always accessible.

Animals begins with the soothing Dolphins followed by the funky Kangaroos. This is a great feature for trombone master Bruce Fowler. The Cd features soundscapes conjuring up images of Tigers, Gorillas, Jaguars, Camels Hippos, Snakes, Alligators and Vultures. This Cd is full of thought-provoking music that simply grooves!

The final track, Lone Wolf,  features Franck Macchia on tenor sax however his real voice is in the writing and playing behind the tenor. Macchia accompanies himself on Piccolo, Flute, Wood Flute, Alto Flute, Bass Flute, Clarinet, Alto Clarinet, Bass Clarinet, Contra Bass Clarinet, Soprano Sax, Baritone Sax and Ethnic Flutes – that’s a mouthful!

Mo’ Animals features many of the same very capable instrumentalists as Animals. The opening tune, Hummingbirds is a playful yet aggressive samba featuring Billy Childs on piano, Howard Levy on harmonica and Frank on saxophone. The background writing behind Childs’ piano adds the perfect compliment to the lively solo.