Matt Rippetoe: BOINK

On the self-produced BOINK, Washington, DC saxophonist Matt Rippetoe experiments freely with a variety of effects to enhance his robust tenor tone and intricate, yet accessible compositions. Rippetoe's co-conspirators—guitarist John Lee, electric bassist Mark Foster and drummer Larry Ferguson—contribute with exceptional musicianship and unwavering dedication to the disc's unconventional flow.

Rippetoe's compositional range is wide. The influences of minimalism (title track), bossa-nova ("Ladybugs ) and electronic-induced improvisation ("Baby Dracula, "Teen Dracula, "Adult Dracula and "Old Dracula ) all seem to fit into an invigorating momentum.

Lee uses a multitude of effects to color his fiery solo lines. The nimble-fingered guitarist tears through the rocked-out "Green Apples with an edginess reminiscent of Mike Stern. His electrified bebop riffs on "Don't Think Too Much are a highlight of the disc.

Foster and Ferguson provide rock-solid backing for Rippetoe and Lee's explorations. The dynamic bassist and drummer keep a tight reign over the disc's stylistic groove shifting. Foster's melodic fretless bass shines on "Pros and Cons, an eerie minor crawl in the style of John Coltrane's "Equinox., and the up-tempo "Flash Flood.

The music on BOINK is inventive, provocative and, best of all, fun. Rippetoe doesn't eschew tradition; he just pokes and prods at it to help develop a vision that is at once unique and inviting.