PROTOCOL V

If you enjoyed Simon's previous Protocol albums chances are you'll enjoy this. Protocol V is another fine fusion fiesta. Spicy playing, tasteful tunes, and another sonically superior sounding disc. The drums sound phenomenal. As if you were in the room watching Simon play them. The lineup has changed a bit for this release. Newcomers are - Otmaro Ruiz (keys), Alex Sill (guitar), and Jacob Scesney (sax). This is the fourth Protocol album Ernest Tibbs (bass) has played on and he and Simon groove big time. This is the first Protocol album with the addition of saxophone and it adds a flavor reminiscent of Chick Corea's Elektric Band to the music. There is not one wasted second throughout the seven songs. Every note, nuance, mood, and musicianship is memorable. This is an album not to be missed for fans of fusion.