L.A. Jazz Collective Drops It For the People

Contemporary, forward-looking jazz plus grass-roots commitment to community through music equals a sonic co-op like no other. On its first outing, Sampler Vol. 1, the Los Angeles Jazz Collective channels the boundless spirit of the music in a patchwork compilation of some of the project's finest pickings. This is indie jazz at its best - unafraid to push the envelope and committed to the profusion of ideas that result when creatively inquisitive musicians join forces. One of my favorite tracks, "Loft Scene," injects subtle electronica within cool jazz contours. Who's ever doubted jazz's relevance needs a reality check and shot of Sampler Vol. 1.