Hommes
Americans might not be buying jazz en masse, but they are buying jazz cut up, sampled, and rearranged by inventive DJs (Cinematic Orchestra,Koop). Into this mix comes Italian instrumental trio Les Hommes, who explore Brazilian jazz with a nod to the DJ audience. Using organ, drums, and vibraphone, Les Hommes work a clean '60s jazz prototype, adding slick DJ chill to their classic Brazilian thrill. The trinity of Tom Jobim, Luis Bonfa, and Walter Wanderley informs every move, from grinding bossa nova beats to sultry samba rhythms, while Les Hommes' posh Italian flair (and serious musicianship) makes this Muzak super-suave, ultrahip. Even the song titles transport you to unspecified yet exotic locales. "WeeGee" is not about the renowned New York photographer, it's a winking invitation to Brazilian lust. "Boogaloogalick" is a mambo-fired mover complete with a corny singer growling over campy Farfisa organ bubbles. All Les Hommes need is aFrank Sinatracover and their ring-a-ding-ding would be complete.--Ken Micallef