Mallet Jazz

This recording of excellent fidelity features mallet-keyboardist Tom Collier with Emil Richards (marimba), Joe Porcaro (drums), Don Crusin and Mike Lang (piano), Dan Dean (bass) and John Bishop (drums). The CD includes nine new, original pieces for mallet jazz quartet - vibes, marimba, piano, bass and drums. "Mallet Jazz," the first cut, is an up-tempo tune allowing Collier to show his most creative improvisational skills. In "Eddie's Pad," Collier displays his excellent marimba technique together with his sensitivity to lush musical lines. It is nearly impossible to pick one tune as better than the other, but "Double Bars," with its Mancini-like groove, stands out, and "Mutso Futso," a major change in style, uses clarinetist William O. Smith to provide a special listening treat. While all nine pieces on this CD captivate the listener, the final cut, "Pink Skies Over Carnaby," has got to be the most impressive - a work for only vibes and marimba featuring Collier at his best. From all the great musical control displayed on this CD, it would seem as if Collier must have an extra hand or two - and therefore deserves three thumbs up.