If it isn’t crushed under the weight of its own hype, Tucson’s Mostly Bears could emerge as the leader of the next prog-rock revolution. The Ed Mitchell Clinic strikes a balance between unrelenting progish jamming and gushing-but-brisk melodies. Just when things border on flighty self-indulgence, the band brings itself back to task before drowsiness can set in. There’s still more copycatting than name-making, but considering this is the band’s first full-length LP, there’s a striking "next big thing" element to the record. (SM)
Hans Glawischnig Panorama (Sunnyside Records)
Virtuosic bassist Hans Glawischnig has earned his stripes playing with just about everyone, from Bobby Watson and Paquito D’Rivera to Claudia Acuña and Ray Barretto, picking up a postgraduate education in world rhythms in the process. His Sunnyside debut features original tunes and superb sidemen: pianists Chick Corea and Luis Perdomo; altoists David Binney and Miguel Zenon; tenorist Rich Perry; guitarist Ben Monder; and drummers Jonathan Blake, Antonio Sanchez and Marcus Gilmore. Glawischnig reveals a sensitive compositional ear that stretches from the majestic bolero of “Barretto’s Way” to the fleshy mystery of “The Orchids” to the hymnlike “Set to Sea.” (MM)
The Black Crowes Warpaint (Silver Arrow)
It’s about time The Black Crowes made a comeback, if you even want to call it that. These guys have mixed and matched their lineup more times than the James Brown Revue. For Warpaint, The Black Crowes have enlisted some classy Southern gents, including North Mississippi All Stars guitarist Luther Dickinson. The overall feel of the album clings tightly to bluesy folk with the kick of rock ‘n’ roll, and it doesn’t disappoint. With spring on its way, Warpaint is a soundtrack for opening all the windows and taking in some sunshine. (JH)
