Union

by Paul Wertico, Hobgood, Torff & Wertico, Laurence Hobgood, Brian Torff, Hobgood

Overview

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

Product Details

Release Date:	03/18/2008
Label:	NAIM
UPC:	0797537101521

Tracks

1. Star Crossed Lovers
2. The Very Thought of You
3. Amazing Grace
4. Not Enough of Too Much
5. My One and Only Love
6. Laurel House
7. Wonderous Love
8. I'm Glad There Is You
9. Inflections
10. Blue in Green
11. The Late Late Blues
12. Free Lunch
13. What Am I Here For
14. Final Thought

Album Credits

Performance Credits

Hobgood, Torff & Wertico   Primary Artist
Hobgood   Primary Artist
Brian Torff   Primary Artist,Bass
Laurence Hobgood   Primary Artist,Piano
Paul Wertico   Primary Artist,Drums

Technical Credits

Ray Noble   Composer
Duke Ellington   Composer
Robert Mellin   Composer
Jimmy Dorsey   Composer
Billy Strayhorn   Composer
Miles Davis   Composer
Milt Jackson   Composer
Guy Wood   Composer
Julian Vereker   Mastering
Bill Evans   Composer
Laurence Hobgood   Composer,Producer,Sleeve Notes
Unknown Blues Band   Composer
Brian Torff   Composer,Producer,Sleeve Notes
J. Christopher   Composer
Paul Wertico   Sleeve Notes,Producer,Composer
Ken Christianson   Engineer