This CD would be highly recommended if only for
Jon Hendricks' brilliant vocalese version of "Freddie Freeloader," which has
Bobby McFerrin singing pianist
Wynton Kelly's part,
Al Jarreau as
Miles Davis,
George Benson as
Cannonball Adderley, and
Hendricks re-creating
John Coltrane. However, all 13 selections on this very memorable set have their strong moments, and the other guests include
the Manhattan Transfer, the Count Basie Orchestra,
Wynton Marsalis,
Stanley Turrentine,
Tommy Flanagan,
Al Grey, and
the Jon Hendricks Vocalstra. "Jumpin' at the Woodside" recalls
the Lambert, Hendricks & Ross version,
Judith Hendricks sings
Louis Armstrong's solos on "Stardust" and "Swing That Music,"
Turrentine helps to re-create "Sugar," there are a couple of
Thelonious Monk tunes, and the exciting proceedings conclude with "Sing, Sing, Sing." Essential music. ~ Scott Yanow