Challenge Records Archive

Steve Hobbs – Tribute to Bobby – Challenge

by Audiophile Audition | Jul 17, 2018 | Jazz CD Reviews

More than just tribute. Steve Hobbs – Tribute to Bobby [TrackList follows] – Challenge CR73433, 65:10 [1/5/18] ****: (Steve Hobbs – marimba, vibes; Adam Kolker – tenor and soprano saxophone; Bill O’Connell – piano; Peter Washington – bass; John Riley – drums) Vibraphonist Steve Hobbs’ 65-minute album Tribute to Bobby did not start out as a homage to Hobbs’ mentor and friend, famed vibraphonist Bobby Hutcherson. But the 13-track CD was turned into an accolade when Hutcherson passed away the day before this session was taped. While there are no Hutcherson compositions, listeners can feel Hutcherson’s palpable personality in the music and performances. In other ways, Tribute to Bobby also pays respect to other musicians, some who are still alive (Bob Dylan) and others who are gone (Consuelo Velázquez, Horace Silver, Thelonious Monk). Essentially, Tribute to Bobby honors many aspects of modern music, jazz and otherwise. Hobbs came to prominence in the late 1980s, and has performed with trumpeter Tom Harrell, Jazz Crusaders drummer Stix Hooper and continues to record with artists such as Kenny Barron. Hobbs has issued several solo records. Tribute to Bobby is the third with Hobbs’ current group, which comprises saxophonist Adam Kolker (he’s backed John […]