Chico Hamilton

For this interesting LP, drummer Chico Hamilton is mostly heard with an octet of Los Angeles musicians. The group, comprised of trumpet/trombone/tenor man Harold Land, French horn/flute (or piccolo) player and guitarist Gabor Szabo, bassist Albert Stinson, and the drummer/leader, performs originals by Hamilton and Szabo, plus "What's New." The concise performances (which are often tightly arranged) are full of subtleties and fine playing, particularly from the guitarist. The title cut was recorded two months later and is the last recording by Chico Hamilton with his star sideman Charles Lloyd, who is heard on flute. Not essential, but this album has its strong moments. ~ Scott Yanow, Rovi