Why three jazz records? Because two or four is just a regular beat. This is jazz, music for the heart and the mind.

JIM SHEARER & CHARLIE WOOD – THE MEMPHIS HANG

All hail Deathtongue!

In the 80s there was a comic strip called Bloom County. Towards the end of its run, some of the regular characters were put into a band called Deathtongue first and later changed to Billy and the Boingers. The most beloved Bloom County character was a penguin named Opus and he played tuba. So, whenever I hear tuba, I think Deathtongue and it brings a smile to my otherwise sour face.

Jim Shearer plays tuba on his new CD, The Memphis Hang, and its witty blatting conjured visions of old Deathtongue. Shearer is an educator. He teaches tuba and music appreciation among other things at New Mexico State University. He lectures as well and has authored two textbooks. So he's well versed in the art he plays. Despite that, The Memphis Hang is relaxed and soothing. It doesn't feel like class at all.

He's joined by Charlie Wood and Billy Gibson and the band defined the title of their CD as follows: it's “what happens when music lovers and long-time friends get together in Memphis for an unconstrained session with no preconceived notions.” Cool stuff.

Strengths: The tuba. It strolls and waddles into the songs, blending with the whiskey-slurred character of each track, making appearances as deep throated laughter behind the comedic songs. “Seduced” is a perfect example of this humor and of the tuba. “Can't Take You Nowhere” is a funny song; great lyrics and good tempo. “Secret Love” is all music and the tuba is in the spotlight. I never knew a tuba could be so fun to listen to until I heard this song.

Surprisingly, it's also the organ that's a strength. Charlie Wood, the vocalist and organ player, is a virtuoso with the antiquated instrument. His playing made me hear an organ for the first time. Add to that Billy Gibson's harmonica and you've just got an eclectic sound.

Weaknesses: The vocals, sorry. They sounded bland against such odd musical accoutrement. Granted, they had an old vintage edge, but it just didn't seem right.