Joe Chambers - Dance Kobina (2023)

Joe Chambers is probably best known for his drumming on Blue Note LPs from the 1960s, many of which are now considered classics. But this consummate musician is also a composer and has played on numerous other releases over the course of his lengthy career as a vibraphonist and pianist.

Since his 1973 debut as a leader, The Almoravid, he has put out several of his own fine albums; add 2023's Dance Kobina to that list. Chambers' drumming doesn't call attention to itself, but tune into his playing and you will find lovely percussive colors, refreshing rhythmic invention, and a profound sense of swing.

Andres Vial, one of several Montreal-based musicians who appear on the album, wrote and played piano on the spirited title track. Highly melodic and rhythmically layered, "Dance Kobina" brings to mind the complex-yet-catchy compositions of Chick Corea. The whole band sounds great, with Michael Davidson's vibraphone and Elli Miller Maboungou's Ngoma drums making key contributions.

On the Chambers original, "Caravanserai," Rick Germanson's piano and Chambers' vibraphone delineate the speeding theme in tandem. Chambers' cymbal work later creates a powerful current that drives Germanson's solo. Mark Lewandowski's bass and Emilio Valdes' Latin percussion add to the strong sense of forward motion that animates this lively piece.

A version of Joe Henderson's "Power to the People" stands out. After stating the zigzagging head on tenor sax, Marvin Carter's solo brings out the theme's Eastern qualities. Traces of Henderson's brawny sound can also be heard during Carter's ace performance. Chambers navigates the track in ever-responsive ways, and his vibraphone adds nice timbral highlights.

TRACKLIST

1. Joe Chambers - This Is New
2. Joe Chambers - Dance Kobina
3. Joe Chambers - Ruth
4. Joe Chambers - Caravanserai
5. Joe Chambers - City of Saints
6. Joe Chambers - Gazelle Suite
7. Joe Chambers - Intermezzo
8. Joe Chambers - Power To The People
9. Joe Chambers - Moon Dancer