With Strings Attached

"With Strings Attached" is a captivating album by the Chico Hamilton Quintet, released on April 7, 1959, under the Poppydisc label. This reissue from a Warner Bros. LP offers a blend of cool jazz and hard bop, showcasing the quintet's evolution and mastery of the genre. The album features ten tracks, including "Something to Live For," "Andante," and "Ev'rything I've Got," each demonstrating the group's subtle and creative style.

Chico Hamilton, renowned as one of the finest jazz drummers of all time, leads the quintet with his distinctive percussion work. The album also features contributions from the European String Quartet, adding a unique dimension to the jazz sound. "With Strings Attached" is a testament to the quintet's growth and artistic prowess, making it a standout release in the jazz canon. The album's 37-minute runtime is packed with intricate compositions and stellar performances, offering a rich listening experience for jazz enthusiasts.

The Chico Hamilton Quintet, led by the legendary drummer and bandleader Chico Hamilton, is renowned for its innovative and cerebral approach to jazz. Emerging in the late 1950s, the quintet initially featured a unique lineup of drums, bass, guitar, cello, and the multi-instrumental talents of Buddy Collette on flute, clarinet, and saxophones. This distinctive configuration set them apart in the jazz world, blending cool jazz and hard bop elements to create a sound that was both sophisticated and accessible. The group's early recordings, such as their 1955 debut, introduced audiences to a fresh and captivating musical experience. Over the years, the quintet evolved, with notable changes including the addition of Charles Lloyd as musical director in 1961, further enriching their sound and solidifying their place in jazz history. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, the Chico Hamilton Quintet offers a timeless journey through the rich tapestry of modern jazz.