MARCH 9, 2002

CD REVIEW
STANTON MOORE
Flyin‚ The Koop
(Blue Thumb / Verve Records)
By SG

Just what constitutes "jazz" and "jam-band," and where do the two go their separate ways? Purists would argue that the two have nothing to do with one another, but this release by Galactic drummer Stanton Moore would suggest otherwise. Joined by a jam-band friendly lineup of saxophonist/flutist Karl Denson, saxophonist Skerik, bassist Chris Woods, and guitarist Brian Seeger, Moore plays funky, limber-limbed instrumental tunes that feature loads of jazz improvisation. Moore anchors the band with loose, loopy rhythms that are banged out with the enthusiasm of a kid in a candy store (and the sensibility of a seasoned musician), as the music easily flirts with funk rhythms, Middle Eastern tonalities, bebop explorations, and just about every subgenre ever to influence a jazz musician. Yes, my friends, this is the voice of jazz in 2002, and it sure sounds fine.