When considering the jazz vibraphone giants of the 20th century,
seven stand out: Lionel Hampton, Red Norvo, Milt
Jackson, Terry Gibbs, Cal Tjader, Gary Burton, and
Bobby Hutcherson.
Bobby Hutcherson (1941-2016), originally inspired by Milt
Jackson, emerged from Los Angeles in the late 1950s. After a stint with the Billy Mitchell-Al Grey sextet in 1962, Hutcherson moved to New York, becoming the
house vibraphonist for the Blue Note label. His foundation in hard bop did not limit him, as he also played in avant-garde sessions with artists like Eric Dolphy and Jackie McLean.On December 11, 1983, Hutcherson performed
seven standards with a stellar group. Pianist George Cables, consistently excellent throughout his career, had been working with Hutcherson since 1977. Bassist
Herbie Lewis, a versatile musician, had collaborated with Hutcherson since 1966. Drummer Philly Joe Jones, known for his work with
Miles Davis, also contributed to the session.The recording of the
Four Seasons album features
seven standards, starting with Thelonious Monk’s “I Mean You,” which showcases each musician. Hutcherson’s solo on Cole Porter’s “All Of You” is particularly adventurous. “Spring Is Here” receives a beautiful interpretation, and “Star Eyes” is taken uptempo. Hutcherson’s introduction on “If I Were A Bell” is notable, as is Jones’s solo. The session spotlights Cables on “Summertime” and concludes with a vibrant version of “Autumn Leaves.” Decades later, the music remains a timeless classic.
Four Seasons is available on black
vinyl, celebrates its 40th Anniversary, and includes an insert with newly written liner-notes by Scott Yanow.
