If Stone & Sky didn't convince you, nuevo retro rhythm and funksters Crowd Company have returned with a live set. If the funk doesn't flow, then everything sinks. No pressure.

Crowd Company Live at the Jazz Cafe (Vintage League Music)

Of course, Crowd Company is known for its live shows, and I think this set makes it even easier to hear how the many parts create such a soulful whole. It's clear the members of the band play off each other--the sound here is both tighter and more expansive than the studio set. It's interesting to hear how the songs have evolved since the studio recording.

These songs could exist anywhere in time in the last 50 years or so, but I do detect the faintest whiff of modernity. Well, the crystal clear sound certainly could not have been achieved in the 60s or 70s. But even the bones of the songs are more of today than yesterday.

Which is as it should be. I'm really not sure what to tell anyone about this collective. If you aren't immediately smitten (like after 10 seconds or so), then this isn't your bag. Leave it for the rest of us. We'll gladly stay the night.

Jon Worley