October 1997

John Hicks
At the Montreal International Jazz Festival
DSM

By David Zych

Pianist John Hicks weaves some real magic with this solo concert recorded five years ago at the Montreal Jazz Fest. He opens with a stridey "That Olde Devil Called Love" and then launches into an evocative and totally captivating tribute to Billy Strayhorn, blending "A Flower is a Lovesome Thing" with "Chelsea Bridge." He follows with a tasteful reading of Gershwin's "Embraceable You," and then pays homage to Monk with a three-part medley of "Monk's Mood," "Reflections," and "Ruby My Dear." This is an exceptional solo recording-one, like all great art, that never bores or is overstated. Hicks' ability to capture the heart of a melody shines when he solos, and on this generous 12-tune concert he truly glistens.