Gary Lucas (View Discography)

Release Info

Grammy-nominated Gary Lucas is a virtuoso whose hands stir many pots. His latest album – in collaboration with his band Gods And Monsters – is ample proof.

While this world-class guitarist and songwriter has worked with almost everyone who is someone (including Captain Beefheart and the late Jeff Buckley), his dream team of a band consists of Billy Ficca (Television) on drums, Ernie Brooks (Modern Lovers) on bass, Jason Candler (Hungry March Band) on alto- and tenor sax, and last but not least Joe Hendel on trombone and keys.

The result is ‘The Ordeal Of Civility’ (the title is a reference to the book by John Murray Cuddihy – an arcane meditation on Jewish identity in an anti-Semitic 20th Century). Gods and monsters… persecutors and the persecuted… one begins to see a loose connection within the context of Lucas’ music, for his refusal to conform to the mainstream – instead opting for more daring and groundbreaking compositions – sees the aforementioned references act as a metaphor.

The album’s eleven tracks melt free-jazz, rock, prog-rock, blues, pop, classical and even folk into a concoction that will be treasured by music lovers who aren’t adverse to the idea to have their brain cells stimulated.

‘The Ordeal Of Civility’ was produced by former Talking Heads member Jerry Harrison, which puts the icing on the cake. This work by freethinkers, movers, groovers and shakers doesn’t make for an easy digest; neither does it strive to be. The complexity of the album challenges you to listen to it time and time again. Be assured, you will discover different facets with every listen.

5 STARS

Tracks

11. Jedwabne