Wham!

Terry Gibbs and Buddy DeFranco always create a special spark when working together, which they have done off and on since they first joined forces on-stage in 1979; that's still the case during these excerpts from several live sets during a 1997 cruise aboard the SS Norway. DeFranco, who is easily the most important bop clarinetist, is a compelling soloist, while Gibbs has the energy and enthusiasm of Lionel Hampton on vibes. They are joined by three talented youngsters: pianist Aaron Goldberg, bassist David Oles Oleszkiewcz, and drummer Gerry Gibbs, the vibraphonist's son. The opening track, "Wham," is not the old Eddie Durham tune but an original by Terry Gibbs that kicks off the set in high gear. He also contributed six other songs to the CD, including the upbeat, but mellow, "Take Your Time," the samba-flavored "Rebekah," and the furious "Go Get 'Em." Tenor saxophonist Flip Phillips joins the quintet for a swinging take of "Sweet and Lovely." Highly recommended.