The local music scene is bursting with talent. There has always been an underground rock scene that bred bands such as the Obvious, the now-defunct Ali Ali Oxen Free and Salsa Brava.
The jazz scene has been a little underrepresented, although the Jazz at the Hilton Series has gotten the genre some of the respect it dearly deserves.Enter BRIDJJ, a quintet of renowned musicians who reside in Utah.
Hornman Bob Taylor, guitarist Rich Dixon, keyboardist Dan Waldis, bassist Jim Stout and drummer Jay Lawrence have teamed and released "Beat the Rats." The band's name is an acronym comprised of the first letters of the bandmates' names.
While each band member's credits are too long to list at this time, lets just say they've been around and know what they're doing. And better, they put out cool tunes of rich textures and jams.
Opening with the Taylor-penned "Deja Blue," the music catches the listener and doesn't let up. As the title suggests, there is repetition, but when the band goes into the riff, it's almost like coming home.
Other fine works include the album title cut, the moody "I Think I'll Keep Her," the countrified "Tastes Like Chicken" and "Precious Caboose."
There's even a tune the kids will recognize - "Barney Meets Godzilla." While it's not as depressing as the visuals to the animated short "Bambi Meets Godzilla," the Barney tune incorporates the "I Love You" lick with impressive improvisational drills. Don't worry, it's done in a way that won't chase the adults away.
Check out the other Utah jazz with BRIDJJ and sit and listen to skillful hooks, jump starts and driving runs.