Live at Basin Street East

This is the first of three albums by the vocal trio of Lambert, Hendricks and Bavan (Yolande Bavan had just recently become Annie Ross' replacement) . This recording finds Jon Hendricks and Dave Lambert in prime form, with Bavan doing her best to fit in (her accent does stand out, although her singing skills are impressive); the backup group features solos from Pony Poindexter on soprano and pianist Gildo Mahones. The highlights include a classic rendition of "Doodlin'," John Coltrane's "Cousin Mary," Hendricks' humorous "Feed Me" and "Dis Hyunh" (really "This Here"). An entertaining performance overall, recorded during a three-day period. ~ Scott Yanow