The N.Y.C.-based instrumental trio once again steps outside of the box that made their career such tough going early on. And like 2001's
Vinyl Killer, it's a sloppy/happy mix of jazz, funk, R&B, space rock, and electronica that propels things here. It still doesn't make a whole lot of sense out of context, but
Mostly Ape is
Drums & Tuba's most consistent work, a piece that explores evolution, man's place in it, and what it all means for the future -- we think. The 12 songs are interchangeable (the closer, "4Style," with emphasis on the tuba half of its moniker, is the most distinct track), but they offer a thoroughly modern alternative to instrumental music. ~ Michael Gallucci