What started as an idea for Magna Carta quickly became a power trio with amazing results. Drummer Terry Bozzio (Frank Zappa, Missing Persons) was asked to form a band to record a disc. Bozzio asked Bassist Tony Levin (Peter Gabriel, King Crimson), who agreed to work on the project. The next decision was to narrow the list of guitar heroes. Bozzio decided to contact an unlikely hero not known for instrumental music. Enter Steve Stevens (Billy Idol).

The debut disc, BLACK LIGHT SYNDROME was written and recorded in less than two weeks and features mostly improvisational electric instrumentals. SITUATION DANGEROUS follows the same format, but has more writing time and rehearsing to push the band to the next level. This endeavor has paid off amazingly.

The disc opens with a composition called "Dangerous." This one starts with a high-energy barrage of screaming guitar and cymbals. In the middle, the pace slows and allows Levin to stretch out the electric bass. The distinctive drumming of Bozzio shines through like fog lights in a haze.

"Endless" is one of the calmest compositions, which combines angelic phrasing with the bowing of an acoustic bass. Throughout the 10 plus minutes, the song builds with guitarist Steve Stevens stretching an ability few listeners know he possesses. "Endless continues to build with power chords and Stevens rolling through an extremely impressive solo.

"Crash" focuses on a twisting melody that seems to wind it's way throughout. The accelerated tempo gives way to a breather that speeds back up and hammers to the end. Another shocking revelation is that Steve Stevens is a truly amazing flamenco guitarist. "Spiral" features dazzling acoustic guitar layered over the consistent rhythm section of Levin and Bozzio.

"Melt" is a moody acoustic piece, which has Levin playing acoustic as well as Stevens. Add an electric wah pedal and "Melt" takes on a whole new identity. "Tragic" plugs in the effect rack and allows Stevens to bring some new sounds to the disc. "Tragic" is complicated yet effectively stacks up effects and builds towards the conclusion. Very interesting track.

Stevens has some help from fellow flamenco guitarist Marcus Nand on a composition call "Tziganne." This is the most traditional sounding piece and has the listener looking for margaritas and sombreros. The disc concludes with "Lost." The title aptly applies especially when the melody seems to draw you in and you lose you in the vibe.

The compositions on SITUATION DANGEROUS are extremely well written and performed. One bit of good news is that the trio is trying to schedule a tour that will bring them to alternative venues such as museums and galleries. With some luck, possibly the Bozzio Levin Stevens express will make a stop in the Cleveland area.

BOTTOM LINE: Bozzio Levin Stevens has their act together, and SITUATION DANGEROUS is perhaps one of the best instrumental releases to hit the shelves in 2000.