Henderson, Skitch
Arbors, 2001, CD
Instrument: Piano
Issue: 8.1w
Jazz Ruler Type: Swing
Performance: 4+
Sound: 4+
Score: 
O’s Notes: Pianist/conductor, Skitch Henderson is famous as the 1st band leader for the Tonight Show and then founder/conductor of New York Pops. On this recording, he’s joined by Bucky Pizzarelli (g), Gene Bertoncini (g), Nikki Parrott (b) and Joe Ascione (d) to make an fine rhythm section. Peter Appleyard’s work on vibes is excellent, most notably on “Lover Man” in a duet with Hendereon. There are four violinists who play together and also in complementary arrangements and improvisation. We liked the work of Sara Caswell (v) with the guitars on “Lover Man” and the spicy solos on “C-Jam Blues”. The program stays fresh with varied groupings and solid arrangements.
