TERRY GIBBS
From Me To You - A Tribute To Lionel Hampton
(Mack Avenue)
Reviewed by Ron Saranich

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Terry Gibbs, a veteran jazz musician with over 50 years' experience, has always consider Lionel Hampton as the father of jazz vibes and his personal mentor. In fact, in the late 1940s, Gibbs was offered a job by Hampton to play both vibes and drums. Hampton's wife, intensely devoted to and protective of Lionel, prevented Gibbs from joining Hampton and taking precious solo time away from her husband. However, a friendship developed between Gibbs and Hampton that endured until Hampton's death. From Me To You is Gibbs' loving, warm, and respectful homage to Hampton.

For his tribute recording, Gibbs selected ten songs associated with Hampton, plus wrote another four original numbers that attempt to capture the spirit of Hampton. Gibbs performs on vibes for all but one of the selections, playing boogie piano on that piece. In addition, on three numbers, he sings on record for the first time in over fifty years. The rest of the band consists of Pete Christlieb on tenor sax, Joey DeFrancesco on organ, Anthony Wilson on guitar, Mike Melvoin on piano, Dave Carpenter on bass, Jeff Hamilton on drums. Barbara Morrison provides the hot vocals on "Evil Gal Blues."

From Me To You is great bop. Gibbs' vibes playing is melodious and swinging. The whole record sounds like it was pure fun to make; as a result, the music is uplifting. Some favorite songs include "Star Dust", "Midnight Sun", and "Flying Home." In addition, the aforementioned version of "Evil Gal Blues" is flat out down and dirty. If you love the sound of vibes within the context of jazz, you should consider purchasing this recently released cd. Lionel Hampton was a great musician, and Terry Gibbs' tribute recording does his friend and mentor proud. From Me To You is a wonderful gift from Terry Gibbs to Lionel Hampton and jazz fans everywhere.

© 2003 - Ron Saranich