TERRY GIBBS
From Me To You - A Tribute To Lionel Hampton
(Mack Avenue Records)
Reviewed by Shaun Dale

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No one could be more fitting to perform a tribute to Lionel Hampton than Terry Gibbs. A swing-era veteran himself, who was once briefly hired by Hampton (primarily as a drummer), he's a master of the Hampton repertoire, although he has a well established style of his own (even at 78, few if any jazzmen perform with more energy than Terry Gibbs). In fact, when Hampton was unable to make some appearances in his later years, it was Terry Gibbs, a longtime friend, who was called up to front the Hampton band.

For this project, Gibbs is in the company of some outstanding supporting players. Noteworthy solos are turned in by Pete Christlieb (tenor), Joey DeFrancesco (organ), Anthony Wilson (guitar) and Mike Melvin (piano). Bassist Dave Carpenter and drummer Jeff Hamilton provide a rock solid foundation throughout. Gibbs even offers some vocals, his first recorded vocal performances in over half a century, that add to the spirit of fun and affection that typifies every track.

This is great swing music performed by a cross-generational assembly of fine jazz men, and as fine a tribute as any player could hope for. This one's for you, Gates. It's well deserved, and wonderfully executed.

Track List:

Midnight Sun * Blues For Hamp * Ring Dem Bells * Moonglow * Gates Got Rhythm * On The Sunny Side Of The Street * From Me To You * Red Top * Evil Gal Blues * Hey! Ba- Ba-Re-Bop * Two-Finger Boogie Shuffle * The World Is Waiting For The Sunrise * Star Dust * Flying Home

© 2003 - Shaun Dale