Jazz Articles about John Hicks

John Hicks: Sweet Love Of Mine

by Nic Jones
January 11, 2007

This polite set effectively closes the recording chapter of the late pianist John Hicks' life--and on an equally fundamental level, it might leave listeners ruing the fact that a lot of the music is simply made somewhat anonymous by the presence of too many musicians.

The opening “One Peaceful Moment" is given a wistfully melancholic reading, which in itself makes a sadly belated case for Hicks the composer, and when tenor player Javon Jackson joins Hicks for a duo reading ...

John Hicks: Fatha's Day

by Russ Musto
January 25, 2004

For those listeners who are not yet cognizant of his status as one of the most eminent virtuoso piano players in the history of jazz, this newest release by John Hicks is as good a place as any to start. Hicks is, regrettably, rarely as recognized as those of two slightly senior contemporaries, McCoy Tyner and Herbie Hancock, with whom he shares (respectively) an opulent orchestral sound and a spare engaging melodicism.

This rare combination of musical ...

Richard Davis: The Bassist

by Craig Jolley
July 1, 2001

One of the world's most respected and beloved bassists Richard Davis left the grind of New York to teach at the University of Wisconsin in the late 70's. This CD is subtitled Homage to Diversity, an appropriate description for Davis' music and for his all-embracing approach to life.As the primary soloist Davis plays arco (bowed) bass on most tunes. In contrast to the generally high-energy feel of his previous records he concentrates mainly on melodic variation. The deep, ...

Lee Morgan: Taru

by Jim Santella
March 1, 2000

Just look at that rhythm section. One of the best in the business. The personnel on Lee Morgan’s 1980 album make this one valuable right from its opening bars. George Benson only appears on three tracks, but Morgan’s regular sidekick Bennie Maupin was in his prime. As was Morgan and the rhythm section. John Hicks, Reggie Workman and Billy Higgins each offer a unique sound while fitting Lee Morgan’s upbeat mold. Recorded February 15, 1968 but released in 1980, the ...