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RecordsMel Graves
Swinging straightahead jazz played by a quartet that revolves around the big bass sound of Mel Graves. Strong points: The cohesiveness of the rhythm section; Graves's confident, Eddie Gomez-like solos and accurate intonation; the excellent recorded sound of the bass; the ''conversation with myself'' title tune. Weak points: Graves's conservatism as a composer (notable exception: ''Viscissitudes''); the tepid foray into fusion on ''Jaco Time.'' Well worth a listen. (JR)
King's XThey say everything's bigger in Texas, and Doug Pinnick's booming bass tone is no exception. Pinnick's piledriver sound, combined with drummer Jerry Gaskill's 1,000-gallon kick drum, moves more air than a 747 taking off. Ear Candy is more melodic than the sneer of 1994's Dogman , but it's yet another gem from this mega-talented trio. Think you know the King's X sound? Cue up ''American Cheese'' for a surprise. (SM)
George DukeClarke gets a track all to himself in pianist/composer George Duke's orchestral jazz tribute to a serene forest of ancient redwoods north of San Francisco. Duke's lavish composition is a real accomplishment and a terrific listen--as well as being a real treat for any Stanley fan. (BL)
CrowbarThis disc almost distinguishes itself from the highly uniform (and usually pretty lame) world of death metal. But just when the music gets a little interesting, vocalist Kirk Windstein comes along and ruins it with monotone barking that sounds just like 1,000 other ''singers.'' Bassist Strange is buried in the mix, but his cool tone does come through in a few mercifully instrumental sections. (KC)
Lindsey Horner