Search - Lionel Hampton :: Just One of Those Things

His Best

Jason Decristofaro | Asheville, NC | 07/03/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Lionel Hampton was more well known in the 1940's as a big band player, so the thought of him playing with a combo might make some jazz aficionados cringe. However, Lionel's sensitivity as a soloist and a player in a smaller jazz ensemble is greatly represented by this CD, which has some of his best solos ever recorded. The solos on Flying Home and Just One of Those Things are quite possibly the two best vibraphone solos I've ever heard him play. His choice in not playing the vibraphone as a ryhthm instrument was a wise one, as drums, bass, and piano already fill out this role with the appropriate amount of support. The addition of a jazz guitarist and clarinetist taking solos greatly adds to the tonal color on many of the songs. My only regret about this CD is that Lionel didn't play more uptempo tunes, as some of the slower songs (such as Midnight Sun) can producde a quickly tiring and dirge-like atmosphere for the listener. However, it is in this recording that we also hear Lionel as more than just a vaudeville player with a few tricks up his sleeves, but as a real jazz musician in the same league as Ellington, Fitzgerald, or Mingus.



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Definition of swing

Jason Decristofaro | 12/18/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"If I ever get tired of this CD, (probably never!)I might go for the boxed set. Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, Buddy fans of all ages, this is a must. About ten minutes into "Flying Home" buckle your seat belts. This tune alone is worth buying this recording as it will provide listeners with the definition of swing and the unbelievable joy that comes with it. Very little else comes close. Buddy Rich's drumming on "Flying Home", from his impeccable brushwork start to a completly hard, pure, and unadulterated swing beat finish is my favorite of all time. Oh, by the way, the rest of the CD and musicians are also about as good as it gets. SWING!"