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Nancy Erickson Lamont: Through the Passages
by Nicholas F. Mondello
On occasion with so many artists presenting recordings, a reviewer may innocently fall into the trap of bypassing a jewel by an unfamiliar singer. Such was the case here. The subsequent discovery was fortuitous. Seattle-based vocalist and composer, Nancy Erickson Lamont's Through the Passages is a thoroughly fascinating, absorbing 12-original-track session with the artist surrounded by an A-1 crew of the Pacific Northwest's best. It is undoubtedly a pearl of a find. “Tick Tock" opens the date ...
Continue ReadingDerek Smith: Latin Expression
by Raul d'Gama Rose
The title of Derek Smith's Latin Expression falls somewhat short of the actual experience. It does not even begin to describe the utter joy that arises from the resonant, fluttering, dancing music that swathes the record. Perhaps “Latin Explosion" might have been more appropriate? Steel panist/vibraphonist Smith plunges, body and soul, into a veritable carnival of Afro-Caribbean sounds, acquitting himself with distinction. To many it might have been a challenge to switch back and forth between pans ...
Continue ReadingDerek Smith, Dick Hyman and Ralph Sutton: The Piano Giants at Bob Haggart's 80th Birthday Party
by AAJ Staff
These selections were recorded in 1994 at the very first jazz party produced by Mat and Rachel Domber, owners of Arbors Records. The party was in honor of multi-talented bassist-arranger Bob Haggart's 80th birthday. I was present to hear these selectios presented to the live audience, so this review is a personal delight to share with the readers. First, however, a brief explanation is in order. In contrast to a jazz festival, which usually implies a ...
Continue ReadingDerek Smith: High Energy
by AAJ Staff
A couple of Arbors regulars have once again lent their talents to fulfill the promise of the title of this album. High Energy is exactly what is delivered in this action-packed album of piano, bass and drums. Derek has put together an outstanding performance on the album, and with the smooth blending of his talents with those of Nicki Parrott and Joe Ascione has produced a finger-snapping, toe-tapping delight for anyone willing to take the trip.
Continue ReadingDerek Smith: High Energy
by AAJ Staff
A couple of Arbors regulars have once again lent their talents to fulfill the promise of the title of this album. High Energy is exactly what is delivered in this action-packed album of piano, bass and drums. Derek has put together an outstanding performance on the album, and with the smooth blending of his talents with those of Nicki Parrott and Joe Ascione has produced a finger-snapping, toe-tapping delight for anyone willing to take the trip.
In the ... Continue Reading
