Fishing With John
Musically best known for his role as leader of the Monk- and Mingus-influencedLounge Lizards, actor/musician/painter/director John Lurie brought his vision to the Independent Film Channel withFishing with John. This deadpan comedy show has Lurie taking city-boy buddies Tom Waits, Dennis Hopper, and Matt Dillon out for fishing and wildlife experiences and celebrating manliness. Though the soundtrack rarely sounds like the Lounge Lizards, Lurie's wide range of influences is felt as he collaborates with various musicians. "Flutter" is strong, with Lurie at home on soprano sax backed by African percussion. "Fish Dance" is a pretty vocal workout conducted by Lizards trumpet player Steven Bernstein. "Freezing Guitar" is an Eastern-flavored piece that features Lurie solo. "River of Men" includes a fine vocal by Tom Waits, recorded as Lurie and Waits paddle down a Jamaican river. It all makes for a quirky journey.--Aaron Tassano