John Lurie

This disc features music from the Independent Film Channel cable series of the same name. The idea of the series is to pair Lurie, the leader of the "non-jazz" big band the Lounge Lizards (and also an actor) with talents from independent films. For this purpose, Lurie whipped up a wide range of imaginative soundscapes, from tongue-in-cheek choral pieces ("Fish Dance") to hip R&B workouts ("Shark Drive"). As a whole, the album is a nice snapshot of Lurie's gifts as a composer. The pieces are rich with imagination and a keen sense of humor. An added bonus is Tom Waits' improvised, lusty rowing hymn "River of Men." ~ Tim Sheridan, All Music Guide