Across the Bridge

GUITAR HEAVEN! Why would I make that headline for an album put together by a guy who plays vibes and marimba? Well, what Tom Collier did was bring in two of today's most important guitarists, Larry Coryell and Bill Frisell, and even through in his bassist Dan Dean for a few swipes at the 6 strings. Then John Bishop and Ted Poor trade off at drums, and yet get some rock oriented jazz, or jazz oriented rock.

Coryell teams with marimba with a toasty "The Junction" a bopping shuffle on "Gold 'n' Blues" and create a wind chime along with Collier on "Across the Bridge." Backed by Poor's driving beat, Collier swings with a burning Frisell on "Beach Drive" a laid back "47th 'N' Hudson" and a lingering "Fauntleroy Mist" with Dean's bass. Collier's vibes and Dean's rock guitar swing well on "The Admiral's Point of View," mixing genres of sound. A creative mix for the rocker who wants to swing, or vice versa.