Zero
Chance in a Million

First Appeared at The Music Box, January/February 1996, Volume 3, #1

Written by John Metzger

Zero has several independent releases available, but this is its major label debut. Recorded live in 1992, the disc captures Zero the way it was meant to be heard. The group undoubtedly is reminscent of Jerry Garcia's Legion of Mary, and many of the musicians either in this band or making guest appearances on this disc are long-time associates of both Garcia and the Grateful Dead. The list includes drummer Greg Anton, keyboardists Pete Sears and Nicky Hopkins, and bassists Bobby Vega and John Kahn. Robert Hunter wrote the lyrics, and Vince Welnick sits in for some serious jamming. The true leaders are saxophone player Martin Fierro who kicks some major-jamming-ass alongside the soaring, floating, Jerry-induced guitar of Steve Kimock. The title track hints at Touch of Grey, and Catalina hints at Foolish Heart. Yet, there's a lot more to Zero than just its Grateful Dead influences, and these songs have their own unique feel.

Ratings

1 Star: Pitiful
2 Stars: Listenable
3 Stars: Respectable
4 Stars: Excellent
5 Stars: Can't Live Without It!!

Copyright © 1996 The Music Box