It is only right that drummer
Gerry Gibbs at some point would lead his own big band, for his father, vibraphonist
Terry Gibbs, had his
Dream Band in the late '50s/early '60s. Although the younger
Gibbs usually plays in more modern small-group settings,
Live at Luna is swinging and boppish enough to satisfy fans of his father without sounding dated. None of the young sidemen are famous at this point, but they are world-class musicians who play with spirit and personality. "The Night the Blytheman," a tribute to altoist
Arthur Blythe, is a post-bop strut that builds while being episodic and is one of the live project's high points. While the Gibbs Orchestra sometimes sounds a little reminiscent of the Buddy Rich Big Band, on "And That's Why They It the Blues" they emulate
Count Basie. Singer Joan Caroll fares well during her appearances, particularly on
Steve Allen's "Playing the Field" and the leader's five originals add diversity, a more modern flavor, and plenty of personality to the program. All in all,
Live at Luna is an impressive debut for
the Gerry Gibbs Thrasher Big Band. ~ Scott Yanow