John Hicks - Nightwind: An Erroll Garner Songbook (1999)

Pianist John Hicks' tribute to the late Erroll Garner emphasizes the song writing brilliance that is overshadowed by the huge success of his classic "Misty." Alternating between solo interpretations and tracks utilizing his trio, which includes bassist Dwayne Burno and drummer Cecil Brooks III, Hicks captures both the warmth and the playfulness of Garner's music. As a soloist Hicks' "Tribute to EG" is both lighthearted and upbeat, while Garner's "Solitaire" and "Passing Through" are beautiful ballads worthy of wider recognition. The trio swings "Misty" mightily rather than playing it in the common slow ballad vein. Garner's lively reworking of "Lover" (called "Paris Lover") and jaunty "Left Bank Swing" are also great vehicles for the trio. John Hicks has done a service to jazz fans by exploring the music of Erroll Garner in greater detail. © Ken Dryden