Trio!

Released on the last day of 1993, "Trio!" is a captivating jazz album by the legendary Chico Hamilton, showcasing his mastery of the drums and his ability to lead a trio with finesse. Recorded in 1992 and released under the Soul Note label, this album is a blend of cool jazz, jazz funk, and hard bop, spanning a total of 70 minutes across nine tracks.

The album features Chico Hamilton on drums, accompanied by Eric Person on alto and soprano saxophone, and Cary DeNigris on guitar. The ensemble delivers a haunting and exotic sound, with Hamilton's drums serving as a lyrical instrument that weaves through the compositions.

"Trio!" opens with the 10-minute "A Little After Twelve," setting the tone for the album with its cool jazz vibes. The tracks that follow, such as "Around the Corner" and "Sound Rising," highlight the band's versatility, moving seamlessly between different jazz styles. The album also includes a beautiful rendition of "La Vie D'Amour (Love of Life)" and a tribute to Helen with "Song For Helen (Elsa's Theme)."

Each track on "Trio!" is a testament to the musicianship of Chico Hamilton and his bandmates. The album's diverse range of styles and compositions makes it a standout in Hamilton's discography, offering both longtime fans and newcomers a rich and engaging listening experience. With its blend of cool jazz, jazz funk, and hard bop, "Trio!" is a timeless addition to any jazz enthusiast's collection.

Chico Hamilton, born Foreststorn Hamilton, was a pioneering figure in the jazz world, renowned for his subtle and creative drumming and his innovative approach as a bandleader. Emerging from the vibrant jazz scene of Los Angeles, Hamilton gained prominence as a sideman for legendary artists such as Lester Young, Gerry Mulligan, Count Basie, and Lena Horne. His most notable contributions came as a bandleader, where he fearlessly experimented with unique instrumentation, notably featuring the cello in his quintet during the 1950s—a bold move that set him apart in the jazz landscape.

Throughout his career, Hamilton's bands traversed a wide range of styles, from cool jazz and post-bop to jazz fusion, always pushing the boundaries of what jazz could be. His ability to discover and nurture talented newcomers further cemented his status as a visionary in the genre. Hamilton's legacy endures not just through his recordings but also through his influence on generations of musicians, making him a true jazz legend.