Search - Derek Smith :: Dark Eyes

"Who's That?" Is What A Jazz Listener Would Probably Ask

Robert J. Ament | Ballwin, MO United States | 10/09/2008

(4 out of 5 stars)

"upon hearing the music on this cd.



Derek Smith is not exactly a household word but at the time of this recording (1983) he had already been playing professionally for 37 years having started at age 14 in London, U.K. As you listen to this set of seven standards and one original, the words that come to your mind will be his versatility and elegance.



Bassist George Duvivier was more well known as he appears on many recordings I have and was known for his flexibility and his steady, deep accompanyment. He was always in demand for jam sessions, combos, studio work or live dates. As I'm writing this, I'm listening to his work in the upper register on "As Time Goes By", a great rendition.



Drummer Gus Johnson, likewise, was always in demand for big band swing settings, combos and dixieland.



You can't go wrong on the price of this!!.......especially if you're a fan of jazz trios or piano.



This is the second recording of Derek's that I have reviewed."