VIDA BLUE: Vida Blue June 24, 2002 - CMJ New Music Report by Louis Miller Album Review - Vida Blue Although Vida Blue may have been the name of a particular southpaw ace who played for the Oakland Athletics some 30 years ago, this particular Vida Blue spends its time pumping out a heavy, groove-laden jazz and funk mix that will have all the beatniks bopping along. Phish keyboardist Page McConnell fronts the virtuoso trio that also includes bassist Oteil Burbidge (Allman Brothers Band, Aquarium Rescue Unit) and funk drummer Russell Batiste (the Meters). Sparse vocals take a back seat throughout most of this disc to allow the various synthesizer, organ and Rhodes parts take the spotlight. While still nestled into the "jam band" grouping, Vida Blue doesn't come off nearly as Phish-y as one would think. The atmospheric synth licks and a staccato bass riff give "Where's Popeyes" a space-funk vibe that smacks of Stevie Wonder. On "Fresh Tube," the rhythm section gets its chance to shine, as a fierce bassline vaults all over the fretboard while drums bump into an organ backdrop. This is one record that is sure not to strike out. © 2002 CMJ Network, Inc.