Anthony Smith Vibraphone Quartet-Connections Vol 1(Jazz Chord Records 2013)

Connections (Volume One and Two) is an ambitious, fresh collection of both originals and imaginatively re-arranged standards by jazz vibraphonist/pianist Anthony Smith, a mainstay of the Southern California music scene. Anthony has enjoyed a varied, well-traveled career as both a keyboardist and vibist, and this new two-volume recording represents his arrival on the international jazz scene as a master of jazz vibraphone. The band includes a "who's who" of Southern California's greatest jazz musiciains, including legendary pianist Mike Wofford, guitar virtuoso Peter Sprague, and flute master Holly Hofmann.

With this new double album, Smith firmly establishes himself as both a world class improviser and also composer. Here's what people are saying about the music:

"A great vibes player, a terrific, hard-swinging band, and great tunes! All around, a first-rate project from gifted musician/composer Anthony Smith."
-Tony Miceli, founder of Jazz Vibes Workshop, world-class vibraphonist and international clinician

"Anthony Smith and his stalwart group of West Coast jazz stars bring to life a cornucopia of original and jazz standard material spotlighting spectacular playing. This album leaves the listener both energized and mesmerized."
-Tim McMahon, author of "Jazz Standards for Vibraphone" (Hal Leonard)

"... a brilliant musician and composer, and his latest project offers up a creative blend of jazz roots mixed with modern explorations. Bravo!"
-Peter Sprague, world-class guitarist, composer, producer and author

Connections is an essential link in the continuing evolution of a beautiful but much overlooked instrument in jazz: the vibraphone. Smith's playing, while highly original, draws upon elements of all the great voices of the vibes in jazz: Bobby Hutcherson, Milt Jackson, Gary Burton and Mike Mainieri (to name a few). An essential album for modern jazz enthusiasts and lovers of creative, improvisational music. 
http://anthonysmithcreations.com