An Alligator in Your Wallet

A beautiful document (both sonically and physically) of the Rovate performance from 2002. The guest composer, Satoko Fuji has a more mainstream sensibility which makes for an interesting contrast with the musicians presented here. The first three tracks have a nice improv/straight jazz schizophrenia, with a number of fine solos. The last two tracks, by Rova member Steve Adams, are the expansive big band improv numbers that you’d expect and are just as engaging. Check out the liner notes for more extensive descriptions of all the tracks.

*1. Easy swing alternates with huge band freakout
2. Ethereal start builds tension, then sax solo
**3. Funky groove with nice sax solo (the most accessible track)
*4. Mellow, rumbling opener then angular with great solos
**5. Upbeat large band, slows down at midpoint and builds to finish

Ben Bostwick 5/12/04