WINDY CITY BLUES 1935-1953 / VARIOUS

Propulsive and swinging from top to bottom, Tardo Hammer sets a high bar for piano trio playing with "Swinging on a Star". Buoyed by bassist Lee Hudson and master drummer Steve Williams, Hammer is at once earthy and ethereal in his 9-tune program that ranges from Gil Evans to Monk. Whether tearing into searing up-tempo bop lines, or laying into a relaxed groove, the trio plays with verve and style