They may not be a regularly functioning band anymore. They only play together whenever two of them are relieved from another professional commitment. But to paraphrase the overquoted words of Mark Twain, rumors of their demise are premature, despite the subtly hidden meaning behind this work's title.

Recorded initially before two of its members left to join Days of the New, Louisville's Java Men have brought us their Orbituary. Still stretched out within the realm of avant-garde jazz, the recording provides what is expected from the Java Men . . . and more. All longtime fans will be more than pleased. Newcomers, those who've heard the trio's name in the whispered memories of the remarkable shows they put on, and those who simply missed Letter to Saint Pauland Voidwill get a solid introduction to one of the best music acts to have ever come from Louisville.

In the years that keyboardist Todd Hildreth, drummer Ray Rizzo and guitarist Craig Wagner have been playing as the Java Men, their basic instrumentation has not changed (though in some instances Todd has switched from organ to piano), which means that though the fundamental sound is the same, what they do withinit is always remarkable.

Orbituaryopens with the brief, hypnotic, title track, where the gentle fade-in of all three instruments appears to signify the beginning of an end. This segues into "The Maja Ven", a selection that highlights what the band is known for - odd rhythms, touches of fusion, technical wizardry on keys and guitar all within a malopropism of the band's name. "It's Yours If You Want" It is a bright traditional lounge samba, followed by the cool funk of "Garfunkel", then the sensual slow-burn of "Dark Ride" with extensive solos from Todd and Craig.

Of the four remaining tracks, "Jed Came Home For Christmas," the final one, is the most astonishing. Sandwiched between a sweet intro and conclusion - where Todd has the flute stop on his organ open to a full churchy tremolo, Craig lightly plucks a six-note phrase suggesting snowfall, and Ray slowly shakes a set of sleigh bells - is a lengthy segment that repeats the same phrase as it builds to a crashing intensity. We wonder what exactly Jed did when he came home for Christmas. And where he may have hidden the bodies.

The recording's title, Orbituary, is a clever compound of two words. An obituary signals the end of a life and provides a summary of accomplishments. But an orbit is a constant motion of one object around another.

Interpret it however you wish. But we may yet hear from the Java Men again and again.

Tim Roberts - Louisville Music News