YES! That WIlford Brimley! The guy that was in The Natural, The Firm and China Syndrome. And you know what? This guy sounds great! He’s got an avuncular tone and pace, along with a lounge lizard’s sense of timing as well as a reliever’s sense of pitch selection. He doesn’t overpower you as much as make you feel comfortable with songs like the cozy “A Sleepin’ Bee” and “Ain’t She Sweet.” He’s got a nice sense of style as he works with Hamilton’s trio of Tamir Hendelman/p and Chris Luty/b on the intro and delivery on “Nice Work if You Can Get It.” This one’s going to surprise you!
As long as we’re talking about The Natural, drummer Jeff Hamilton has a natural gift for taste, sophistication and stylish swing. He holds the reins on this hip trio lead by pianist Mike Jones and with Mike Gurrola/b riding shotgun. Jones shows that he’s got the boogie woogie chops when he goes solo on a rollicking “I’m Walkin;” otherwise he delivers piano bar perfection on a lovely lilting “Besame Mucho” and dreamy “September Song.” Gurrola digs a deep groove in “Corcovado” and everyone gets into the feel on Jones’ own “Box Viewing Blues.” This trio sounds like it was custom made to be the supporting group for a singer. Any takers? You won’t be disappointed!
Capri Records