This second release from (and their first on the label) not only offers 's great blend of instrumental textures from tenor sax/clarinet, vibraphone, accordion, acoustic bass, drums, and percussion, but also provides a satisfying stroll among multiple musical genres. Drummer is the group's composer, and his clever pieces move effortlessly from funky to (both rhythmic and ambient), with some African elements and "new music" vocabulary thrown in for good measure. A good example of 's eclecticism (one of many) would be the piece which was inspired by a quote from in a documentary. It opens, in 's words, with "the harmonic clouds and space of ," which eventually give way to a pensive melody stated by accordion and vibes. has been compared favorably with , and it's an apt analogy as far as it goes, but brings a different mix to the table, with a stronger presence, more musical intellect, and a bit less of the slacker/stoner vibe embraced by the crowd. credentials aside, 's supple rhythmic patterns (sometimes with a dash of whimsy) form a link with the witty, "invented ethnic" music of , although their minimalist tendencies also draw upon or early . 's percussive mallet work evokes the sound of classic pieces such as , but can also swing mightily, especially when he, , and bassist grab onto a groove. On some pieces (or portions thereof), 's microtonal and/or multiphonic forays on clarinet and tenor also bring to mind various experimental trios and quartets. Likewise, accordionist wanders "outside" at times, pulling atonal bursts from his instrument, and pitch-blending with 's clarinet. But 's compositions are so deft and fluid that any movements toward the fringes are integrated into a broader musical palette that beguiles and seduces rather than throwing a thorny musical challenge at the listener. As a consequence, manages to produce music that is mellow, easy on the ears, but also creative and intellectually stimulating. ~ Bill Tilland