Tapestry is the debut album from L.A. trio Mojo, a unit that features the incredible talents of guitarist Bret Garsed (Uncle Moe's Space Ranch, Bobby Rock), drummer Kofi Baker (son of Cream's Ginger Baker), and bassist Ricc Fierabracci (Frank Gambale.) If this sounds like an impressive line-up, let me tell you that what you hear on Tapestry is quite good indeed.
For a top combination of chops and groove, this is a total winner. "Polly Put the Kettle On" features a funky groove from Baker and Fierabracci that is just littered with intricate guitar picking from Garsed. On "Tally Ho!!!", the guitarist pops in a jaw-dropping extended solo that would make legends like Satriani and Vai take notice. Garsed combines a myriad of styles and sounds for a very unique sonic platter, such as speed, distortion, whammy theatrics, slide, wah-wah, blues phrasings, jazz and country twang. Baker and Fierabracci are a perfect team, as the drummers' heavier rock style proves to be a great foil to the bassists' incredible mix of fusion and funk chops. Perhaps the ultimate feast here is the near 10-minute "Mojo", a heavy, plodding rocker that features absolutely wild guitar solos from Garsed and furious drum fills from Baker. Fierabracci joins the fray as well with some neat harmonics and hammer-ons during his solo spot on the tune. The title track is a more melodic piece, yet extremely complex with some great unison lines from the whole band, and "Jam Donuts" is a real groove piece that lets the band go nuts with extended solos.
Add Mojo to the list of superb instrumental fusion bands on the scene today. All three musicians are extremely talented, and they sound as if they have been together for years. The sound on the CD is very crisp and spontaneous, probably due to it being recorded "live" in the studio with very little overdubs. Highly recommended.
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