Terry Gibbs, Buddy DeFranco - Chicago Fire (1987)

Bass – Todd Coolman; Clarinet – Buddy DeFranco; Drums – Gerry Gibbs; Piano – John Campbell; Vibraphone – Terry Gibbs. Recorded live direct-to-digital two track at Joe Segal's JAZZ SHOWCASE in the Blackstone Hotel, Chicago on July 24 - 26, 1987.

This was the second meeting on record by vibraphonist Terry Gibbs and clarinetist Buddy DeFranco (an obscure set for Palo Alto from 1981 was the first), and it officially launched the quintet which would record several additional sets. With the powerful pianist John Campbell, bassist Todd Coolman and Terry's son Gerry Gibbs on drums, the two veterans play heated versions of such tunes as "Rockin' In Rhythm," "Cherokee," "Giant Steps" and "52nd Street Theme." Gibbs and DeFranco always inspire each other, making all of their recordings of strong interest to bop fans. ~Scott Yanow