Is this jazz? Country? Western swing? Well, yes, though I'd say it veers between jazz and swing (including that of the western variety) more than anything else. These instrumental tracks are exceptionally adept at blurring genre boundaries. Geo Trio seems just as at ease with 70s funk as it is with Bob Wills-style joints.

Geo Trio We Made an Album! (self-released)

And then some more. I guess this fits into "jazz" best, but even that broad categorization doesn't do justice to the breadth of this band's sound. And it's not just the wide variety of ideas that impress. These three execute those ideas with skill and verve.

Imagine the Dixie Dregs jamming with Bill Frizzell and (a somewhat calm) Ginger Baker. There are more than a few Zappan moments. To say the Geo Trio wanders is an understatement. But the beauty of that journey is the best part.

Set aside all expectations and just let go. There's no way to approach this album with anything except open-ended awe. I haven't heard anything this adventurous and accomplished in a very long time. Ramble on.

Jon Worley