Jeff Hamilton - Dynavibes (2007)

Although vibraphonist Frits Landesbergen had recorded a couple of dates as a leader for Timeless prior to appearing as a guest with the Jeff Hamilton Trio on the 1996 studio session Dynavibes, the Mons CD should introduce him to a wider audience. With Hamilton's first-rate drumming and solid accompaniment from pianist Larry Fuller and bassist Lynn Seaton, the trio turns over the spotlight to Landesbergen, who acquits himself rather well with his four-mallet technique playing a mix of standards like "Cherokee" and "Sweet Lorraine," bop classics ("Killer Joe"), and a quartet of intriguing originals, including the funky "Happy Kick" and a smoking tribute to a legendary vibraphonist, "Blue for Milt." Overall, this is a very rewarding session. ~Ken Dryden