Chico Hamilton, the renowned jazz drummer and bandleader, teams up with the virtuosic flautist Paul Horn in this captivating 1967 release on Ace Records. "Chico Hamilton with Paul Horn" is a vibrant journey through the diverse landscapes of cool jazz, hard bop, and jazz funk, all wrapped up in a concise 31-minute package.
The album opens with "Porch Light," setting the stage for an evening of sophisticated grooves and intricate melodies. Tracks like "Autumn Landscape" and "Uyawda" showcase the duo's ability to blend serene, contemplative moments with dynamic, rhythmic interplay. The playful "Lolly Pop" and the energetic "Pluck It" demonstrate the band's versatility, while "Katz Up" and "Crazy Cats AKA Classical Katz" offer a nod to the playful, feline-inspired themes that Hamilton often explored.
Hamilton's distinctive drumming style, characterized by its subtle sophistication and impeccable timing, is on full display throughout the album. Meanwhile, Horn's flute work adds a lyrical, almost ethereal quality to the music, creating a unique blend of sounds that is both engaging and innovative.
"Lord Randall," the album's closing track, leaves the listener with a sense of satisfaction, tying together the various threads of the album into a cohesive whole. Whether you're a longtime fan of Chico Hamilton or a newcomer to his music, this album is a testament to his enduring influence and creativity in the world of jazz.
Vinylscout