Chico Hamilton: Foreststorn

Glenn Astarita

Senior Contributor since 1997

Longtime contributor to AAJ and Downbeat, Jazz Review, EjazzNews, Radio DirectX.

Recent articles (1,629 total)

Published: June 1, 2001

Legendary drummer/bandleader/educator Chico Hamilton celebrates his inaugural album for Koch, along with his current working band and some very special guest artists such as Rolling Stones (and frequent jazz performer), drummer Charlie Watts, alto saxophonist Arthur Blythe, trombonist Steve Turre and others. Simply stated, this well traveled, highly influential and thoroughly hip musician surges onward amid his now famous lightning quick rim-shots, swiftly executed cymbal work, melodic fills and altogether impeccable timekeeping. Here, Hamilton and co. provide us with a variegated series of peppery pieces, marked by guitarist Cary DeNigris' electrified lead lines, sinewy motifs and the front line sax section of Evan Schwam and Eril Lawrence's lyrically-charged choruses and blustery soloing. Hamilton even sings the blues along with "Blues Traveler's" harmonica ace, John Popper on the piece titled, "I'm Gonna Move To The Outskirts of Town." Yet most importantly, Foreststorn is dedicated to and inspired by the leader's late son, Foreststorn Jr. who sadly passed away in 2000. However, this production signifies a well-balanced and upbeat gala, further enhanced by Chico Hamilton's effervescent musical presence.

Track Listing: Outrageous; That Boy With That Long Hair; I'm Gonna Move To The Outskirts of Town; Bone Cello; Around The Corner; Soprano Dance; 11 Bars For Arthur; Sweet Dreams; Sorta New; Guitar Willie; Foreststorn; Here Comes Charlie Now; When The Saints Go Marchin' In; Foreststorn--Reprise.

Personnel: Erik Lawrence: alto/soprano saxophones and flute; Paul Ramsey: bass; Chico Hamilton: drums and vocals; Cary DeNigris: guitar; Evan Schwam: tenor saxophone; Special guests: Arthur Blythe: alto sax; Akua Dixon: cello; Eric Person: soprano sax; John Popper: harmonica; Eric Schenkman: guitar; Steve Turre: trombone; Charlie Watts: drums.

Record Label: KOCH International Jazz
Style: Straight-ahead/Mainstream