Jazz Journal Review
Through this new set, Hamilton displays his artistry to fine effect … his finest to date as a leader.
Having played sideman to some of the richest voices and instrumentalists in jazz – Ella Fitzgerald, Diana Krall, Benny Carter, Michael Bublė, Lionel Hampton, Scott Hamilton, Oscar Peterson, Ray Brown, Basie – it’s not surprising that Jeff Hamilton is revered as one of the most musical of drummers. Whether in a small group, big band or trio setting, his touch and nuanced feel is always sensitive to the song, his groove invariably swinging, singing and slick.
Through this new set, Hamilton displays his artistry to fine effect. As he eases in with the John Williams ballad Make Me Rainbows we hear first the warm flutter of his trademark brushes over a prominent bass figure from Jon Hamar and pianist Tamir Hendelman see-sawing between straight four and waltz time. Continuing to lightly riff, the band cruise breezily through the piece until an abrupt snare and quick switch to sticks signals a slow but dramatic lift to a more driving swing section, snappy with bop-style phrasing.
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