May 1997

Dick Morgan
After Hours
Foxhaven

By Chuck Berg

Pianist Dick Morgan is an exuberant player whose infectiously toe-tapping style reminds one of such blues-based ivory-ticklers as Gene Harris. A mainstay of the scene in Washington, D.C., here, Morgan treats us to such re-energized standards as "Fascinatin' Rhythm," "Joy Spring," and a wonderfully atmospheric "On the Trail." Everything cooks. And swings. Tasteful hand-in-glove support is provided by guitarist Steve Abshire, bassist Keter Betts and drummer Lenny Robinson.