Bobby Hutcherson 1941-2016

by Paul Burmeister

My favorite vibraphonist, Bobby Hutcherson, died August 15, 2016. He enjoyed a long and critically-acclaimed career. His discography spans six decades, as both leader and sideman; he could play inside and outside. My favorite setting was in a group with a great piano player, such as McCoy Tyner or Chick Corea. His leader recordings are also a good place to hear the fine saxophonist, Harold Land.
Hutcherson's Total Eclipse (1968 Blue Note) is a desert-island recording for me. The title track and "Same Shame" are treasured tracks among the set's five tunes. Saxophonist Harold Land soars, and drummer Joe Chambers sets the perfect foundation throughout.