This 1994 CD released for the first time a live set (recorded at Half Moon Bay, California) performed less than a year before pianist Hampton Hawes' death. Hawes, in a quartet with guitarist Denny Diaz, bassist Leroy Vinnegar and drummer Al Williams, dominates the music and displays his ability to uplift a couple of pop tunes ("Sunny" and "Fly Me to the Moon"). He also swings creatively through a blues, "St. Thomas" and a pair of his originals. This excellent music gives no hints of Hawes' upcoming demise. - Scott Yanow
Tracks
1. BD&DS Blues (Hampton Hawes)
2. Pablito (Hampton Hawes)
3. Sunny (Bobby Hebb)
4. Nice Meanderings (Hampton Hawes)
5. St. Thomas (Sonny Ro0llins)
6. Fly Me To The Moon (Bart Howard)
HAMPTON HAWES piano
LEROY VINNEGAR bass
DENNY DIAZ guitar
AL WILLIAMS drums
Recorded live at the Douglas Beach House, Half Moon Bay, CA; June 10, 1976.
Contemporary Records – CCD 14072-2