Chico Hamilton

Featuring: Buddy Collette (fl, cl, as, ts), Fred Katz (cello), Jim Hall (g), Carson Smith (b), Chico Hamilton (d)

It is doubtful that any other combo leader in jazz has made the jump from sideman to maestro more rapidly or more uccessfully Than Chico Hamilton. The Los Angeles-born drummer, a sideman with name bands throughout the 1940s and subsequently member of Lena Horne’s accompanying trio for several years, did not really get into action as a leader until 1955, when he formed his quintet. Their initial impact undoubtedly was helped by the quintet’s instrumentation. With Chico on drums, Buddy Collette on flute, clarinet and saxes, Fred Katz, cello, Jim Hall, guitar, and Carson Smith, bass, they presented an innovative sound. Never did they overpower, or use high decibels as a substitute for inventiveness. In a little more than a year on the road Chico’s quintet established itself as one of the best-drawing small jazz units in the field.

RECORDED Hollywood, 1955 & 1956

Tracklisting:

1 A Nice Day
2 My Funny Valentine
3 Blue Sands
4 The Sage
5 The Morning After
6 Jonalah
7 Chrissie
8 The Wind
9 Gone Lover (When Your Lover Has Gone)
10 The Ghost
11 Sleepy Slept Here (Santa Monica)
12 Takin’ A Chance On Love
13 The Squimp
14 Topsy
15 Sleep