Smith Dobson

Smith Dobson was one of the top jazz pianists based in the San Francisco Bay area. He did not record all that often as a leader, but this somewhat obscure release is fairly definitive. Dobson teams up with vibraphonist Bobby Hutcherson, bassist Jeff Carney, and either Eddie Marshall or Vince Lateano on drums. Altoist Mark Lewis and singer Gail Dobson (Smith's wife) make two appearances apiece. The music is straight-ahead with a bit of Latin ("Sasha Bossa") included for variety. Highlights include "It Could Happen to You," "Old Acquaintance," and "Old Devil Moon." Smith Dobson brought his own personality to the straight-ahead music he played; this is one of his strongest releases. ~ Scott Yanow, Rovi