Lingua Franca - EP

T.R.A.M.'s etymology is straightforward enough. The band's name uses the first initial of each member’s surname—woodwind player/percussionist Adrian Terrazas, guitarists Javier Reyes and Tosin Abasi, and drummer Eric Moore. Its backstory and music are considerably more complex: Animals as Leaders’ Reyes and Abasi met Terrazas (who played with The Mars Volta for three albums) after finishing the 2010 Summer Slaughter tour. The trio jammed extensively before inviting Suicidal Tendencies drummer Moore to record with them. Lingua Franca infectiously blends jazz fusion, progressive metal, and even a bit of hard funk. “Seven Ways Till Sunday” contrasts a spiky twin-guitar attack and disciplined drumming with a flowing, sinewy saxophone line. ”Endeavor” has a thoughtful extended flute and guitar intro that melts into an attack of soprano saxophone and guitar, while the band’s version of Kool & The Gang’s “Hollywood Swinging” transforms a classic party anthem into an explorative statement.