This was the album that introduced me to JFJO, a band which any regular reader of this here blog knows I'm a big fan of.  It was recorded live during several shows in 1998 and was released on Russ Gershon's Accurate Records, which I've mentioned in this space before which is the sole reason I picked it up to start with.  This was recorded back when Jacob Fred was a septet with the continuing core of bassist Reed Mathis and keyboardist Brian Haas joined by trombonist Matt Leland, trumpeter Kyle Wright, guitarist Dove McHargue, percussionist Matthew Edwards, and the late Sean Layton on drums.  This album reflects the much different sound the band had before it was stripped down to the current trio of Haas, Mathis, and Jason Smart on drums (replacing Brian's brother Richard).  The band was a much cleaner and funkier experience than the out-there free-jazz exploration to which the trio has since been able to strech themselves.  Nonetheless, it gives you a very good base on which to build your Fred experience.  One of my favorites.

Formerly Denver's-own Apples in Stereo is good fun stuff. I bought this on the recommendation of a friend and wasn't sure what to expect and found that the fuzz-pop happiness on this album gives good music. Catchy lyrics and guitar hooks propel you through the fairly short 11 tracks and leave you wanting some more.