CREATURES

This is a solid effort from the erstwhile Zappa cover band Lumpy Gravy now known as Frogg Café. With the exception of The Celestial Metal Can which I understand is a tribute to Charles Ives the American experimental classical composer this album is a complete study in how to make good music. Not that this song is bad it is just too long. Some people may have the ability to listen to Firpp's soundscape over weed wackers all to the rhythm of spoons clacking but no thanks not for 8 minutes. However the good news is the other 44 minutes of this CD are brilliant.

Starting with the opening track All This Time and into the title track we hear that Zappa influence kick into some creative melodies and tight rhythms. Frank Camiola's guitar and Bill Ayasse's violin really shine here. Andrew Sussman and James Guarmieri keep the rest held to together. Nick Lieto's vocals are fitting here if nothing spectacular. Gagutz starts out with a great flute duet that moves into some more unusual musical harmonies. Still coming back to a reoccurring theme it all seem to work.

But the piece of résistance is the 21 minute Waterfall Carnival. In this number we find the real strength of the band in that you ccan play subtly for 21 minutres and make it interesting. No real bang you on the head moments but kind of airy flow through many changes and textures.

Lots of guest musicians to add color in the forms of clarinet, clarinet and marimba to add to the bands already large inventory of instruments gives the CD some welcome surprise sounds to the mix. Very light hand on the production as well. I really like this one and if you are a fan of Fusion, Zappa and Focus you will too. 4 Stars.