CAB (band)

CAB was conceived in 2000 by French bassist Bunny Brunel, who had gained prominence through his work with Chick Corea and Herbie Hancock. Brunel recruited drummer Dennis Chambers and guitarist Tony MacAlpine, both established figures in the fusion and rock scenes, to form a power trio. Their self-titled debut album, CAB (2000), was released on the Tone Center label and showcased intricate compositions with a strong rhythmic drive.¹

The band's name is an acronym of the members' surnames, a detail often noted in interviews. The debut was well received by fusion enthusiasts, leading to a follow-up, CAB 2 (2001), which expanded the lineup to include keyboardist Brian Auger. This album further cemented their reputation for technical proficiency and tight ensemble playing.²

For their third album, CAB 3 (2003), the band introduced keyboardist Patrice Rushen, known for her work in R&B and jazz, adding a new harmonic dimension. The album featured a mix of original compositions and covers, including a rendition of Herbie Hancock's "Chameleon."³

In 2008, the band released Theatre de la Mode, which saw a return to a trio format with Brunel, Chambers, and guitarist Jeff Richman, who replaced MacAlpine. This album was noted for its more melodic approach while retaining the band's signature complexity. The lineup has remained fluid, with Brunel and Chambers as the constant core, allowing for collaborations with various guest artists.⁴

CAB's music is characterized by intricate bass lines, powerful drumming, and virtuosic guitar work, drawing from jazz fusion, funk, and progressive rock. Their compositions often feature odd time signatures and complex chord progressions, appealing to a niche audience of fusion aficionados. The band's sound has been compared to that of Return to Forever and the Mahavishnu Orchestra, yet they maintain a distinct identity through Brunel's distinctive fretless bass playing.⁵

The band's albums have been released on the Tone Center label, a subsidiary of Shrapnel Records, which specializes in instrumental guitar music. This association has helped them reach a dedicated fan base within the guitar community, and their recordings are often cited as benchmarks for technical proficiency in fusion.

Despite their relatively small discography, CAB has had a significant impact on the fusion scene, particularly through the individual achievements of its members. Bunny Brunel is also known for his work as a session musician and for developing the "Brunel" bass, a custom instrument with a distinctive sound. Dennis Chambers has been a highly sought-after drummer, performing with artists such as John Scofield and Santana, while Tony MacAlpine has released numerous solo albums and collaborated with other fusion projects.⁶

The band's album Theatre de la Mode was named after a 1946 fashion exhibition in Paris, reflecting Brunel's French heritage and his interest in art. The cover art features a surrealistic painting, and the album includes a track titled "Parisian Thoroughfare," a nod to Bud Powell's classic. These cultural references add a layer of depth that is often overlooked by casual listeners.⁷

Fusion

A musical genre that combines jazz improvisation with rock, funk, and other styles.

Fretless bass

A bass guitar without frets, allowing for a smooth, gliding sound.

Power trio

A rock band format with guitar, bass, and drums, often emphasizing instrumental virtuosity.