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Wise Monkey Orchestra: They Live
Ron Davies

What makes the Wise Monkey Orchestra so intriguing is their ability to blend a century worth of musical approaches into a single sweaty sound. This live album, recorded during several shows in California, serves as a fine example of how successful such combinations can be. For example, consider the album's opening track, "Movin' Free". Opening with an easy mid-tempo funk, the track moves like a forgotten Prince song with slinky bass and horn motifs -- then abruptly shifts intentions when vocalist Alley dishes up her smoke-colored blues. With a rich, passionate alto reminiscent of Janet Joplin, Alley brings out the blues buried at the center of funk. This gives the song a solid, earthy feel as opposed to the all-night party of most funk. What really makes the track come alive, however, is the slamming trombone solo by Andy Geib. Velvet smooth and whiskey hot, his playing sideswipes Alley's vocal line and instantly moves the track from blues to swing. This move invigorates the music and increases the energy by a level of magnitude. While this progression of styles might sound stilted, in practice the band manages it with ease and precision.

Throughout the set, the instrumental solos set the Wise Monkey Orchestra apart from other groove outfits. "SLM", an instrumental, features another fine turn by Geib as well as a great run by guest saxophone Dave Ellis. Marty Schwartz, who plays his guitar with a keen sense of humor that brings a smile to the lips as often as it does a shimmy to the step, displays his skill on several tracks. "Thyme" in particular contains a solo that so smoothly compliments the main melody, as well as the other musicians, that even the crustiest jazz afficionado would have to offer a gruff compliment. Although the rhythm section does not often take the center stage on this album, both bassist Chad Stewart and Bruce Stodola deserve recognition for the attention they give the rest of the band. By striving to simultaneously push and support the other members, they give songs like "Brainchild" a crackling energy. That track also includes a fine solo by organist Sean Hart, who his funky time and a willingness to coax unusual tones from his keys, reminds me of John Medeski's organ work.

Although live albums are generally considered "lesser" works, in order for this music to contain the sparkle that makes it so exciting, I feel it is all but essential to record it live. Whaever is lost due to the rare imperfect mixing levels or imprecise playing is more than made up for by the sense of energy the live setting provides. While Wise Monkey Orchestra has studio offerings, I would recommend starting with They Live for its superlative emotional content. This is hot stuff, and should prove equally enticing for groove band lovers and jazz fans.