Brand New Can
Fiddler Darol Anger and guitarist-mandolinist Mike Marshall, both alumni of the groundbreakingDavid GrismanQuintet, have played together in a wide range of acoustic bands over the years, some more freewheeling than others. Still, they always relish a return to the uninhibited improvising that was the hallmark of the Grisman band. OnBrand New Can, their second under the Anger/Marshall Band moniker, they have again composed a collection of tunes that lets them stretch out like they did in the old days. Their music has moved far beyond its bluegrass roots to incorporate bebop and other modern jazz styles, as well as elements from Indian, Brazilian, and Celtic music. The eclectic mix of styles doesn't always gel, but when everything comes together as it does on "Queequeg's Big Adventure" and "The Fall," the results are thrilling. The band includes fretless electric bassist Derek Jones and drummer Aaron Johnson, who do an exemplary job laying down the groove. Marshall and Anger may have played with some of the world's finest musicians but, as the playing onBrand New Canshows, their greatest inspiration has always been each other.--Michael Simmons