What is most extraordinary about “R&Bewilderment” is that you get the feeling that this amazing band is playing right in front of your eyes. Then reality jars and it hits you with the realization that this music was not recorded live. What we get here is tight arrangements with what sounds like spontaneous improvisation. Although he has help from others (most notably Allan Ray), the music is mostly Matt. All the drums and the lion’s share of the vocals (a cross between Billy Gibbons and Tom Waits) are handled by Ebert. More than half the compositions have his bass and guitar work as well. Stylistically “R & Bewilderment” pretty much holds true to it’s title. Soul, blues and some jazz are blended with a rock sensibility that keeps the whole ship afloat.

“Sweet Nothing” is the definitive opening composition. Gritty lead voice, wah guitars and female backing vocals get the mojo moving. “The Rise And Fall Of Alagon” could be a THINKING FELLERS UNION LOCAL 282 reunion with a guesting horn section and some added funk. “In The Dark” has a mellow mantra making use of telemarketing samples. “Demonic Hoedown” is a standout among the great tuneage surrounding it. Ray’s banjo play a major role in the tune’s success. His banjo accompaniment on this and a couple others make this music what it is. “Raymond” is low fi “Trout Mask” action. “Communication Breakdown” sounds more like ZZ TOP from ’78 rather than LED ZEPPELIN from ’68.

“Bottled Up Blues’ is Ebert all alone and still on top of his game. “Ain’t No Woman” is fairly true to the original, yet still sounds better overall. Of the three covers here “Hunger Strike” fails to impress in most other reviews I‘ve read, yet I think it’s the best (especially considering Yours Truly cares little for the original). Ebert handles the tune with care. It’s improved without the use of irony, camp, punk speed or noise. Just 100% soul, brother! “I’m Kinda Happy” has some fascinating sonic aloofness that you just need to hear for yourself. This CD is free just for emailing your snail mail address to Mr. Ebert. You'd be a fool not check it out.

- Herring

OFFICIAL SITE: myspace.com/experienceebert

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