Laurence Hobgood is best known for being singer
Kurt Elling's regular pianist.
Hobgood's solos are thoughtful and inventive, so it is only right that he finally has a chance to fully shine on this CD. The date actually features a co-op group that also includes the virtuosic bassist
Brian Torff (who has had a lower profile since he impressed many during his period with
George Shearing) and drummer
Paul Wertico. Most of their collaborations on this set are taken at slow to medium tempos, with the improvisations being melodic, lightly swinging, and full of subtle surprises.
Torff has a few features (being particularly impressive on "Amazing Grace"),
Wertico plays well in support, and
Hobgood is in top form. The program concludes with a humorous version of "What Am I Here For." Recommended. ~ Scott Yanow