A trio of musicians from Oregon working without one of the usual lead instruments can make for an interesting sound in the world of jazz. The fact that they're primarily electric and working on their own songs adds to that. The sound on
Origin of Species is surprisingly atmospheric, working its way through sinuous grooves, long preludes, and the occasional punch of energy from Donald Corey's bass. The music, if comparable to anything, would have to be said to have parallels with
the Mahavishnu Orchestra and those surrounding
the Mahavishnu. The waves of sound are reminiscent of
Birds of Fire at times, and at times
Miles Davis' electric era is evoked (especially in the
Joe Zawinul-penned "In a Silent Way"). An interesting sound, definitely not in the mainstream of jazz but in the mainstream of a strong alternative. ~ Adam Greenberg