The Kojja

This long-awaited disc by The Concussions is here! A dozen raw, twangy surf and guitar instrumental tunes, delivered by guys that are masters of their instruments and know their way around a recording studio. Hailing from Grand Rapids, Michigan, this combo is led by Dick Chiclet on lead guitar, who also produced recorded and mixed this release. His production style, which favors the use of vintage gear and is inspired by Joe Meek and others in the past and present that have stuck to analog recording techniques. This all goes towards delivering a disc that will appeal to surf and vintage instrumental rock n' roll aficionados, as well as those that are just looking to move and groove on the dance floor.

An appropriate title for an utterly charming set from the Three Sounds. The trio works familiar territory on Feelin' Good, playing a set of swinging hard bop and classy soul-jazz, but there's a definite spark in the air. Working from a diverse set of standards, originals, contemporary jazz, and blues, the Three Sounds created a cheerful, up-tempo record. Its very ease is deceptive - the music is so accessible and entertaining, it's easy to overlook the sheer musical mastery of the group, which performs at something of a peak on this record. Gene Harris sounds better than ever, turning in an elegant interpretation of "It Could Happen to You," but he's just as able to inject "When I Fall in Love" with unexpectedly vigorous swing and make Monk's "Straight No Chaser" a foot-tapping, danceable delight…