’Earthly and Cosmic Tales’ is a program of eight Bruce Lofgren originals and two covers. This album represents a point of departure from previous Lofgren (large ensemble) releases in that this collection of musicians is smaller than normal, and while it has been mostly scored those involved are encouraged to undertake improvised solos. What is interesting are the instruments involved as there are no actual drums, while vibraphone plays an important part, as does cello and vibraphone. Those involved are Geoff Nudell (Bb clarinet), Hope Easton (cello), Craig Fundiga (vibraphone), Randy Landas (acoustic, electric, and fretless bass), Bruce Lofgren (acoustic and electric guitars) and Billy Hulting (hand percussion).
It certainly does not sound like a band being led by a guitarist as Bruce is normally very much in the background, just holding it together with the bass to allow the other instruments to take the lead. It is also unusual in the sense that while jazz is at its roots, it is also strays into modern classical quartet styles, so it feels like a fusion of some very different genres indeed. There is a lightness in much of this, a levity, and Stevie Wonder’s classic “Creepin’” (taken from 1974’s ‘Fulfillingness’ First Finale’) fits in very well indeed. This may not be an essential release, but it is a worthy listen all the same.
Rating: 7/10
