Ken Dryden, All Music Guide
While the music of Tadd Dameron is familiar to dedicated jazz
fans, pianist Tardo Hammer is one of just a few musicians who have
dedicated themselves to exploring Dameron's music in depth. Well
accompanied by bassist John Webber and drummer Joe Farnsworth, Hammer
explores obvious numbers, including a jaunty take of "Hot House" (which
is based upon Cole Porter's "What Is This Thing Called Love"), a dreamy
but never syrupy interpretation of the lovely ballad "If You Could See
Me Now" and a hard charging romp through "Our Delight." But fans are
especially in for a treat with the less familiar works, like the
whimsical "Flossie Lou" and the angular "Look Stop & Listen,"
penned as a feature for drummer Philly Joe Jones and showcasing
Farnsworth in this fiery interpretation. Hammer's sensitive arrangement
of "Smooth as the Wind" seems as if he is accompanying an unheard
vocalist, though Hammer is no stranger to backing singers. This is yet
another top drawer session by the talented Tardo Hammer.