Tom Collier - Malllet Jazz (2004)

Longtime jazz session percussionist Tom Collier is put in the limelight with a handful of other session musicians (and more) from the course of his career. The set is comprised entirely of Collier originals, passing from relaxed grooves to tests of the various percussive chops on the part of the band. Collier spends the bulk of his time on the vibes with good effect, but occasionally crosses over to the marimba, adding to the sound from Emil Richards (percussion hall-of-famer), who keeps up the softer, thicker sound of the instrument throughout. Adding to the proceedings are some nice bits of drum work from Joe Porcaro and John Bishop; Dave Brubeck's old clarinetist Bill Smith on clarinet in "Mutso Futso in Row 12," and Mike Lang and Don Grusin (Dave Grusin's brother) on piano. Additionally, Dan Dean provides able bass from beginning to end as the lineup changes elsewhere. The focus, though, is always on the vibes and marimba on the front lines (it is titled Mallet Jazz, after all). The intricate lines devised by Collier show off the abilities of the lead duo, and the solos taken by both Collier and Richards alone make the album worth hearing. The rest just adds to the allure. ~ Adam Greenberg