JL's Top 5 Albums of the Moment

Call this a sub-list of my current most frequently listened-to albums. The numbering positions are arbitrary and could be easily inverted on any given day, depending on my mood, with the exception of one, the ill'n new release by Medeski, Martin and Wood: “End of the World Party (just in case).”

Medeski, Martin and Wood – End of the World Party (just in case)


John Medeski’s peculiar organ arrangements and synthesizer use reflect smooth continuity within the music's structure, creating a more modern sound in comparison to other recent releases, such as The Dropper or Uninvisible. Commencing with scary, “mad scientist-esque" tunes, such as Anonymous Skulls and End of the World Party, the album eventually morphs into smooth, groove based tunes like Mami Gato. The trancey Midnight Poppies/Crooked Birds is reminiscent of the Beatles' Flying. End of the World Party's subliminal magnetism and solemnity rank this album as one of the best new releases in 2004. However, that is a discussion for another day.



Grant Green – Blues Break Beats



The 70's funk compilation remains a foundational cornerstone within modern funk. Smooth and succinct guitar riffs combined with an ear-appealing groove base yield a funky sound that's guaranteed to please any ear. The album begins with the quincentennial James Brown funk tune, Ain’t it Funky Now. Grant Green displays his up-beat lead guitar prowess in the sinfully funky percussion based tune Windjammer, and in his immensely successful original, Sookie Sookie. A must have for anyone who loves the funk.

Miles Davis - A Tribute to Jack Johnson




Another vivacious gem from one of the most influential jazz artist of all time. Davis' all-star band includes musical greats Herbie Hancock (keyboards), John McLaughlin (electric guitar), and Billy Cobham (drums). This electrified jazz album symbolizes the pride, independence and achievement of Davis' idol, boxer Jack Johnson. Providing everything from progressional blues-based to ambiguously transitional electric guitar riffs, this album combines guitar virtuoso John McLaughlin's dexterity with Davis' smooth, albeit tenacious horn sections.

Sound Tribe Sector 9 – 2004.06.17 Live at Mishawaka Amphitheater in Ft. Colins, Colorado

Sector 9's trancey ambiance and groove-based harmony come full circle in this outstanding show from summer 2004. Notable gems in the first set include the improvisation jam proceeding Frequencies 3, followed by an intense Kamuy segued into an eloquent Kaya. The second set is highlighted by the funky opener, Ramone and Emiglio, crowd-pleasing build up jam, Breathe-In, the heady segue into Move My Peeps, and finally, the high-energy encore, Inspire Strikes Back. This album aims to please even the most anal fan.

Moe. - Wormwood

Smooth, sexy guitar rifts fused with Moe's subconscious spontaneity instantly creates new music for the masses. Moe's feeble attempt to transcend live energy into a medium enjoyable by any fan is nothing short of successful. Recorded during the Summer 2002 tour and flavorfully remastered, Moe. has prosperously removed the proverbial “studio album” monkey from their backs. Crab Eyes, reminiscent of the Led Zeppelin classic Moby Dick, is one of many smooth, percussion-based, transitional tunes. Additionally formidable tracks include Wormwood, Okayalight, Bullet and Kyle's Song.

Other noteworthy albums include:

• String Cheese Incident – 2004.10.23 Live at the Thomas Wolfe Auditorium in Asheville, NC

• Miles Davis - On the Corner

• Trey Anastasio - Plasma

• John Scofield - Up All Night

• Charlie Hunter - Friends Seen and Unseen