Béla Fleck and the Flecktones - Flight Of The Cosmic Hippo (LP)

"Flight of the Cosmic Hippo" is the second studio album by Béla Fleck and the Flecktones, released on June 7, 1991, under Warner Records. This genre-blending masterpiece combines elements of newgrass, jam band, bluegrass, and jazz fusion, showcasing the band's innovative and eclectic sound. The album features ten tracks, including the playful title track "Flight of the Cosmic Hippo" and its reprise, as well as unique covers like "The Star Spangled Banner" and "Star of the County Down." With a runtime of just 44 minutes, the album is a tight, energetic collection that highlights the band's virtuosity and creativity. "Flight of the Cosmic Hippo" reached number 1 on the Billboard Top Contemporary Jazz Albums chart and earned Grammy nominations, cementing Béla Fleck and the Flecktones' reputation as pioneers in the fusion of traditional and contemporary musical styles.