Jay Hoggard - The Right Place

Vibraphonist Jay Hoggard, who doubles on marimba, explores straight-ahead jazz, some Afro-Cuban pieces and originals influenced by African music on this outing from 2003. All of the music swings and is fairly accessible while being creative. Dwight Andrews is a major asset on his three reeds, pianist Hilton Ruiz is a guest on three numbers, James Weidman doubles on organ and piano on the other selections, and the two percussionists add fire to some of the music. Hoggard contributed all but Hilton Ruiz's "Guataca" and several of his originals would be catchy enough to become standards if they were heard by enough musicians. Read More