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Code 3 Code 3 (1999, independent)
Hear Code 3's mp3 files here 

Code 3, a fusion trio from Los Angles, includes local veterans 
Jeff Miley on guitar, Doug Shreeve on bass, and Eric Wells on 
drums.  Their self-titled debut CD also features guest Jeff 
Babko on keyboards.   

Code 3 showcases a smooth, relaxed style of fusion in 
mid-tempo songs with developed heads and solo sections, mostly 
written by Miley.  Clever melodies ring with a refreshing 
originality in timbre and phrase, and space within the grooves 
allows all four musicians to improvise not only individual 
solos, but also ideas within their rhythm parts.  Code 3 
was recorded live in a concert hall, an environment designed to 
inspire their top playing, and the best version of each song 
was selected from two or three takes.  The feel of interaction 
between the musicians comes through well on tape, in places 
like the triplet fill in "Reunion," adding to the dynamic jazz 
vibe of the music. 

Miley plays well crafted lines with a dark, smooth distorted 
tone or a crisp, traditionally clean jazz guitar sound. 
Shreeve adds a purring bass that drives the music with 
intensity, and Wells' mellow drumming and feather light cymbals 
hold up the rhythmic framework.  Babko's keyboards contribute 
subtle but important touches, such as piano doubling of some of 
Miley's clean guitar lines, and a flowing solo in "Reunion." 
The faint background mix of Miley's clean chording behind 
Shreeve's bass solos in "Dark Tower" and "Imagine That" shows 
the egalitarian band concept behind Code 3, where the music 
takes precedence over individual roles.  

In this current age of numerous independent fusion bands, and 
numerous guitar-centered, instrumental bands claiming to play 
fusion, Code 3 stands out from the pack with clear jazz roots 
and a pure vibe that displays influences without copying anyone 
else's style.  Their cozy groove on Code 3 recalls 
modern and traditional takes on jazz fusion, combined with an 
original voice. 

Reviewed by Scott Andrews [sha3u@Virginia.edu]

More Info:
 
www.code3music.com
 

Lineup: 
Jeff Miley - guitar 
Doug Shreeve - bass 
Eric Wells - drums 
Jeff Babko - keyboards (guest) 




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