The most outstanding aspect of Jim Crawford Band's debut release is, by far, the highly skilled rock and funk vocals provided by guitarist Jordan Good and bassist Eugene Gibralter. "The People Vs. Jim Crawford" is an accomplished fusion of rock, funk and blues. Every song on the album is perfect for the radio and each one is catchy, fun and full of talent. Many music fans from the MSU community first experienced the Jim Crawford Band at the April 16 Battle of the Bands at the International Center, where the band took second place.

The best thing about the album, though, is the vocals. The recording quality gives accurate attention to the well-conditioned and pleasing voices. Funk music is not easy to pull off vocally - one's voice must incorporate soul, growl and quality equally and at the same time. Rarely have I heard vocals as good as those in the Jim Crawford Band coming from a independent debut album.

But the album wouldn't be as fantastic without the great music, as well. The rhythm section maintains a steady, solid flow throughout the album, laying down the beat and allowing for guitar improvisation.

"Sister Wendy" is a fantastic rock song with a killer guitar lead and funky bassline. "Funky Reverend" is, by far, the most happy and fun song on the album - but it's not just fluff. This four-piece is truly talented and ridiculously creative.

The song "Get Yours, Children" is as flawless as rock can get. This is probably the least "happy" song on the album and features amazing instrumentalism.

The soulful rock style of "Just Like On Christmas" is similar to that of 1960s popular music, but the heavy bass, drums and rhythm guitar surpass that of the cheesier recordings from the good old days. The crickets chirping add humor and image to the song, something the band does well.

A similar style is employed throughout "Condoleezza." The verses to this tune made me laugh out loud. The lyrics are hilarious and witty and make this one of my favorite songs off of "The People Vs. Jim Crawford."

"Caramel skin and silky black hair, I'd love to be one of your, your international affairs/ Won't you work on my inflation/ Come down to my place and have a little wine/ I'll dim the lights and we can take a little time to discuss our foreign relations."

Even more joviality and rockin' music ensues with a chorus including "Be my Condoleezza."

Smart, funny and talented - what else could you want from a band?

"The People Vs. Jim Crawford" is excitingly eclectic and surprisingly excellent.

I say surprising only because the band hasn't exactly had its time in the spotlight. Jim Crawford Band has played a few times in Lansing, as well as in Kalamazoo, Grand Rapids, etc. But the group is well-deserving of more attention.

Jim Crawford Band is arguably one of the best local bands and is definitely worth a listen or a drive to The Temple Club on Wednesday.

Suggested listening: Live Wednesday night at The Temple Club, 500 E. Grand River Ave. in Lansing

If you liked this, you also might like: The Red Hot Chili Peppers or The Black Crowes