Formed in 1997,
the Coalition is very much a democracy, featuring keyboardist Scott Healy, guitarist
Glenn Alexander, electric bassist Michael Merritt and drummer Shawn Pelton. Although the liner notes for this CD make it sound as if their music is highly original and had never been attempted before,
the Coalition essentially plays high-quality '70s fusion with updated technology. As with
Weather Report, the emphasis is on ensembles rather than individual solos, with the sound of the group often being as important as the piece they happen to be exploring. The only major change of pace on the CD is the folksy soul-jazz ballad "Word From Ulster County." Listeners into fusion will certainly enjoy this music and the complex grooves that
the Coalition sets and builds upon, none of which are simplistic or obvious. Recommended. ~ Scott Yanow