Vibraphonist
Dick Sisto's follow up to his earlier independently produced CD,
American Love Song, is worth seeking. He's backed by a strong rhythm section, including pianist
Kenny Werner, bassist
Drew Gress, and either
Steve Davis or
Barry Ries on drums. His "End of Time" was written for the funeral of a good friend, but there's nothing maudlin about the tune; it is a driving yet reflective number. "Rhythm Thing" is another fine original by the leader, an uptempo bop chart that features
Barry Ries on flügelhorn;
Sisto also composed "Two Five City," a strutting hard bop vehicle. His interpretations of standards are also inspired. "You Must Believe in Spring" is played with a samba feeling, "Nature Boy" has a more exotic air than usual due to
Sisto's use of a talking drum in addition to vibes.
Ries also plays talking drum on several selections, including his composition "Insider," which has a captivating theme that is hard to predict. The closer, "Back to Nature," is a group improvisation by
Sisto,
Werner, and
Ries that moves easily into free jazz. ~ Ken Dryden