Three Classic Albums Plus (Digi

Dive into the world of cool jazz and hard bop with "Three Classic Albums Plus" by the legendary Chico Hamilton Quintet. This comprehensive collection, released by Avid Entertainment, spans over two and a half hours of meticulously crafted jazz, showcasing the quintet's versatility and mastery of the genre. The album features a rich tapestry of tracks from various phases of Hamilton's career, including collaborations with notable artists like Buddy Collette.

The compilation begins with the quintet's early works, highlighting their signature cool jazz sound with tracks like "A Nice Day" and "My Funny Valentine." As the album progresses, it delves into more hard bop influences, showcasing Hamilton's evolution as a bandleader and drummer. Standout tracks like "The Sage," "Free Form (improvisation)," and "Spectacular" demonstrate the quintet's ability to blend structured compositions with spontaneous improvisation.

The album also includes selections from the Chico Hamilton In Hi-Fi series, offering a glimpse into the quintet's experimental side with tracks like "Jonalah" and "The Wind." The compilation concludes with a selection of tracks from the Chico Hamilton Quintet, featuring classics like "September Song" and "Caravan," which underscore the quintet's enduring appeal and influence on the jazz landscape.

"Three Classic Albums Plus" is not just a collection of songs; it's a journey through the evolution of jazz, highlighting Chico Hamilton's innovative approach to composition and performance. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.