Joey Baron: Scottie Pippen

Does humor belong in music? Sure, in Frank Zappa's world, but what about jazz? When a unique trio of drums, tenor, and trombone is doing the talking, the answer is an enthusiastic yes. This high-spirited romp of tangled lines and jaunty rhythms starts out with Baron laying down an athletic Hawaii 5-0 groove over which Eskelin and Swell squawk at each other like two angry birds of prey. Loads of fun. Also, the perfect counterexample to the idea that free play must be overly serious and academic.