While the music of
Tadd Dameron is familiar to dedicated jazz fans, pianist
Tardo Hammer is one of just a few musicians who have dedicated themselves to exploring
Dameron's music in depth. Well accompanied by bassist
John Webber and drummer
Joe Farnsworth,
Hammer explores obvious numbers, including a jaunty take of "Hot House" (which is based upon
Cole Porter's "What Is This Thing Called Love"), a dreamy but never syrupy interpretation of the lovely ballad "If You Could See Me Now" and a hard charging romp through "Our Delight." But fans are especially in for a treat with the less familiar works, like the whimsical "Flossie Lou" and the angular "Look Stop & Listen," penned as a feature for drummer
Philly Joe Jones and showcasing
Farnsworth in this fiery interpretation.
Hammer's sensitive arrangement of "Smooth as the Wind" seems as if he is accompanying an unheard vocalist, though
Hammer is no stranger to backing singers. This is yet another top drawer session by the talented
Tardo Hammer. ~ Ken Dryden