Tardo Hammer - Hammer Time (1999)

This is Tardo Hammer's debut recording as a leader, and the pianist's solid, if mundane, technique shows why he is in demand as a supporting player. His strong command of the bebop vocabulary and sensitive touch lend themselves to performing standards, which comprise most of the album. Along with the very fine Dennis Irwin on bass and Leroy Williams on drums, the trio is a finely tuned unit that rarely ignites, but never misses a beat. The results are satisfactory, though hardly innovative. The group takes some subtle liberties with tempos and harmonies, showing an ability to interpret classics in a slightly different way. Nonetheless, there is little to distinguish the trio's playing on this recording from the host of other, similarly finely crafted piano trios performing in New York City and other metro centers. ~ Steve Loewy