It's hard to believe that a few years ago the members of 8 Bold Souls couldn't find a label that wanted to sign them. Well, Thrill Jockey made sure that this distinguished jazz band, which features members of the Chicago Free-Jazz Guild and the Association for Advancement of Creative Musicians, didn't stay label-less for long.

Last Option is the Souls' third album, even though the band has been around for 15 years. Led by composer Edward Wilkerson, Jr., this octet walks the line between composition and improvisation, as it is influenced equally by the likes of Parker, Ellington, Stravinsky, Coltrane, Bartok, Debussy, Ravel, Ornette Coleman and even pygmy-music players from the Ituri Forest. How many other bands can stick these on a resume?

Not only is this music challenging, but it also is melodic. Upon listening, you'll notice the predominance of low-sounding instruments, such as the bass, tuba, cello and trombone, which combine to form a "basso continuo" that is the foundation for all pieces. How many other jazz bands have a cello player, much less cello solos?

this album was recorded live in a single room with only a few microphones -- the same manner in which groups of the 1950s and '60s recorded their material. Last Optionhas that exciting live feel to it. Innovative, creative and highly recommended, it's Ellington meets Debussy meets Parker meets Sun Ra.

- John Lee