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CL Bob: The Great Flash

Since conception 12 years ago CL Bob they have changed the face of NZ jazz. Originally formed in 1994 to play for a surrealist party in Wellington, the band refined its sound through extensive touring - mainly in the South Island. Over time the group has seen numerous line-up changes, each of which has further shaped an already eclectic sound. It is a potentially unstable cocktail of bobalised trad and improv jazz - complete with synthesiser and, with this album a great western movie theme. On this release (which is dedicated to Len Lye) the main perpetrators are: Simon Bowden - guitar, banjo and keyboard, Steve Cournane - drums and harmonica, Tim Jaray - bass, Toby Laing - trumpet, mono-synth and tambourine, Nils Olsen - saxes and clarinets, and Chris Williamson - guitar. With such a line up it is hardly surprising that the end result is such a superb album. Recorded in a variety of locations and produced by Toby Laing. What is surprising is that for a unit that has been around for so long, this is only their third album. The last CL Bob release 'Stereoscope' was recognised as NZ Jazz Album of the year in 2002, an award that could well be repeated with 'The Great Flash'. More details can be found at www.clbob.co.nz

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