Trap ‎– Beyond The Status Quo (1997, CD, Usa)

"Trap, the brainchild of Gary A. Parra, might be deemed progressive rock if forced into a genre, but it is a very unusual sort. While some harmonic and structural gestures invoke prog rock, Parra includes in his ensemble a classically-trained violinist and a bassoonist. Beyond The Status Quo recalls the complexity and sophistication of Zappa,the weirdness of King Crimson, neo-romanticism a la Joseph Schwantner, and the jagged and particular texture and idiosynchratic flavor of the Rock In Opposition movement. Trap's eclectic music is quirky, bizarre, even quixotic, yet always fascinating." -- Dean Suzuki, Wired, December 1997

"Coming straight out of the spirit of Zappa and RIO . . . Trap is an American group which doesn't recreate its influences, but which, far from copying its masters or idols, seeks to assimilate and render in its own way the glorious past of a musical genre that is always contemporary. . . . above all there is an undeniable spirit to create a music that surpasses predefinined labels. Avid listeners of Absolute Zero, 5UU, U Totem and other bizarreries that are typically American, "Trap" is for you!" -- Jérôme Schmidt, Art Zero #5

"If you like the idea of a less hectic Cartoon, with a touch more 70's Soft Machine & Mahavishnu Orchestra...phenomenal." -- Audion, 1997

"What we have . . . is a strange and shimmering gem that defies easy description and categorization. A fun release that all should check out . . . playful avant strangeness. " -- Peter Thelan, Exposé #13, Summer, 1997

Trap ‎– Insurrection (2001, CD, Usa)

Led by drummer Gary Parra (Cartoon, PFS) this trio brings to the table a mixed bag of influences, although RIO seems to be the main genre explored. A revolving door of bass players, including such notables as Enrique Hardines (Absolute Zero) and Mike Sary (French TV), along with an assortment of other guests on various wind instruments help round out the sound that is distinctly Trap.

Totally uncompromised and unconstructured RIO style, nerve thrilling as few, and obviously only for the impossible people out there. Impossible to categorize.

by request (here)