Chicago’s Jason Seed Elixir Ensemble are a very peculiar band. Their list of recurring band members is so long I lost track attempting to count it. Fronted by singer and guitarist Jason Seed, their press champions them as the 2008 winner of the Independent Music Awards’ best “jam band.” Don’t take that phrase in the modern sense, which is still reserved for Phish fans. In the case of the Jason Seed, we’re talking about an exquisite blend of horns and strings. This is a unit that has been compared to artists ranging from Frank Zappa to Nick Drake and when you hear the Seed’s varied arrangements, you’ll understand such a broad statement. Seed’s vocals have a pleasant way of wrapping around the arrangements and he always knows when to step back and let his players have their moment. Helen Reich, who contributes her viola skills to the Seed, was nice enough to send over their 2007 effort, Where The Corners Meet, which I am currently basing this ramble on. Last month, the group released their third full length, 3. The album can be purchased independently now through CD Baby. Below you’ll find a great live video of the Seed performing “So They Say” from Where The Corners Meet.