Though
the Flecktones didn't change their formula with their third album,
UFO Tofu, they did manage to craft one of their more consistent and impressive efforts. The band's fusion of jazz, bluegrass, and funk gels quite well on
UFO Tofu -- not only does
Béla Fleck turn in a rich, eclectic performance, but pianist
Howard Levy's deft lines and inventive phrasing dominate the album. Occasionally, the material is lightweight, functioning only as vehicle for the group's solos. Then again, the whole point of
Fleck's music is the solos, so that shouldn't upset his fans too much. Of course, it doesn't help him win new ones, either. ~ Thom Owens