Erin Dickins - Vignettes

The Guardian 80

(Sizzle & Swing)

Ten tracks, 10 duets, each with a different partner – not showbiz names, just startlingly good musicians. And Erin Dickins, New York session superwoman and founder member of the Manhattan Transfer, knows the difference. Some, such as drummer, vocalist, harmonica player Paul Jost are multi-instrumentalists; others,such as bassist Bruce Hamada and vibist David Friedman, are straightforward virtuosi. With a mixture of technical brilliance and stylistic instinct, Dickins builds a fascinating series of vignettes, ranging from quick-cutting, multilayered effects to simple voice and piano. The material is as varied as the treatment, including pieces by Nat King Cole, Bob Dylan, Annie Ross and Frankie Laine, among others. And not a cliche or slack moment anywhere.