FREE FALL

The Dixie Dregs are truly a quirky band. The number of styles and sounds they concentrate into this album is truly remarkable. They flawlessly mix jazz, rock, and bluegrass, and classical all in a progressive context. The music is complex, and usually up-tempo, but always engaging.

They show off their technical prowess in the more rock oriented songs such as 'Free Fall,' and the brutally fast 'Cruise Control.' The more funky and jazzy numbers include 'Hand Jig' and 'Refried Funky Chicken,' while we see them delving into a slightly bluegrass/country sound with 'Moe Down.'

Despite their overwhelming speed they can still take it down a notch in the gentle closing 'Northern Lights' and the short interlude 'Sleep.'

Overall, this is a very fun album with a ton of eclecticism. The musicianship is superb, and the music is even better.

8/10