On Juniflip, one of four new releases by Chico Hamilton in 2006 for his Joyous Shout! label, the veteran drummer is hardly resting on his laurels or simply rehashing old favorites. Mixing it up with seasoned musicians like trombonists Jimmy Cleveland and George Bohanon, along with some talented, much younger multi-reed players such as Karolina Strassmayer, Evan Schwam, and Andrew Hardo, Hamilton signals that he still has a lot to contribute to the world of jazz, with guitarist Cary DeNigris, fender bassist Paul Ramsey, and percussionist Jeremy Carlstedt providing great support alongside the leader. Vocalist Bill Henderson is added for the wild treatment of the oldie "Ain't She Sweet," which finds him scatting a bit over a sassy, street-wise funk rhythm. He also appears on the swing favorite "Don't Be That Way," beginning as a warm duet with DeNigris before it transforms into a forceful bossa nova as the band makes its entrance. Arthur Lee, of the psychedelic rock band Love, adds a swinging vocal in a driving take of Mary Lou Williams' terrific blues "What's Your Story Morning Glory." Retirement is clearly not in the picture for NEA jazz master Chico Hamilton, especially when he continues to produce such exciting and enduring music.
© Ken Dryden /TiVo