McGill - Manring - Stevens: Controlled By Radar

These folks are well known for their respective jazz-fusion and progressive rock endeavors, spanning numerous albums, various bands, and guest spots. With their second trio release, the group splits this 2-CD set into two disparate motifs, i.e. Disc 1 (“Right Brain”) represents the electric side of matters, while Disc 2 (“Left Brain”) is an all-acoustic set. On the electric side, guitarist Scott McGill puts the pedal to the metal on several occasions. While bassist Michael Manring and drummer Vic Stevens consummate this adventurous brew of prog-rock and free jazz improvisation with supple rhythmic structures and terrifyingly complex patterns. Yet, the acoustic disc might signify this band at its creative peak! As they pursue East Indian type ragas, avant-garde jazz, folk, and introspective musings that cast an abundance of curiously interesting propositions. Either way, it becomes easily discernible that these world-class musicians are delving into each other’s psyches. This is enticingly heady stuff, and not your typical chops oriented fest – where the soloists’ ordinarily take turns flaunting their goods. Sure, they have chops – but it’s more about outward expression and intuitive interaction that elevates this outing to the top of the heap. Recommended...

The Laser’s Edge