Waxed Oop

Captain Beefheart's monumental slabs of Dadaist Americana challenged not only the culture at large but the very musicians that created within it, and still stands as a daunting challenge for anyone attempting reiterations. The inclusion of "project" in the title gives one a pretty good idea of the level of commitment dedicated to making this work. The intensity and precision of the original songs get lost in limp horn arrangements and the pointless jazz nodding of the solos. This CD could well have been executed by a final year college jazz ensemble for all the fire it lacks. And where the Captain's music provided the possibilities for transformation, this band opt for the comfort of repertory arrangement. What's really sad are the offerings of Beefheart alumni, and badass guitar monster, Gary Lucas, whose dobro guitar slide work is the only glimmer of style in the otherwise tepid rock guitar wankage that informs his contribution. Hardcore fans of, or new converts to, Beefheart's music would do well to give this one a pass.