The Newark, NJ-based acid jazz group's 1997 release certainly lives up to its title: combining hip-hop beats, sampled loops, and an overall dusky vibe. The sinewy "Sea of Love" (not the
Phil Phillips hit) has exceptional soloing by pianist
Josh Milan. Built around a beat similar to
Bill Withers' "Use Me," "The Ave." makes use of a subdued sax section and sounds somewhat like a TV score. "Rescue" has a feel and sound akin to
the JBs. Other standouts are the hypnotic "Wah Wah Vibes," the sleek "Feel the Way," and the organ-drenched "Q." This tight album will appeal to acid jazz lovers and steppers alike.