What makes Friends Old and New by John Hicks notable?

This album is significant for its celebration of classic jazz standards while also highlighting Hicks' original compositions, which contributed to his recognition in the jazz community. It received positive reviews upon release, particularly for its arrangements and the interplay among musicians, solidifying Hicks' reputation as an innovative artist within the genre. When 'Friends Old and New' was released in 1992, John Hicks was establishing himself as a respected pianist in the jazz scene, having previously collaborated with notable artists like Archie Shepp. This album followed his work on 'The New York Sessions' and marked a continued exploration of jazz standards alongside original compositions, showcasing his growth as both a player and a bandleader.

Who is Friends Old and New for?

Friends Old and New works well if you're into steady melodic exploration, warm harmonies for relaxation and engaging solos for focus.

How many songs are on Friends Old and New?

Friends Old and New has 8 tracks, running approximately 51 minutes.

Friends Old and New

John Hicks · 1992

51 min · 8 tracks · jazz

Richly textured jazz intertwines with spirited improvisation, capturing the essence of camaraderie and musical conversation.

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Top tracks — play these first

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I Want to Talk About You — This track stands out for its heartfelt interpretation and lush harmonic progression, allowing Hicks to showcase his emotive playing style.
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It Don't Mean a Thing (If It Ain't Got That Swing) — Hicks delivers a vibrant arrangement of this Duke Ellington classic, emphasizing rhythmic vitality and engaging solos that invigorate the familiar melody.
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Makin' Whoopee — The playful yet sophisticated treatment of this standard reveals Hicks’ ability to blend humor with serious musicianship, making it a memorable highlight.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady melodic exploration
warm harmonies for relaxation
engaging solos for focus
for dinner gatherings

Maybe skip if you

prefer fast-paced tracks
seek instant gratification

Where this album fits

Career context: When 'Friends Old and New' was released in 1992, John Hicks was establishing himself as a respected pianist in the jazz scene, having previously collaborated with notable artists like Archie Shepp. This album followed his work on 'The New York Sessions' and marked a continued exploration of jazz standards alongside original compositions, showcasing his growth as both a player and a bandleader.
Stylistic neighbors: McCoy Tyner· Chick Corea· Ahmad Jamal

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Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Makin' Whoopee

The narrative shifts from playful banter about romance to deeper reflections on commitment and life’s ups and downs.

This transition enriches the song's narrative arc, moving beyond surface-level charm to evoke genuine emotional complexity.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Hicks Tone 7:54
2 I Want to Talk About You 5:56
3 Bop Scotch 4:59
4 True Blue 6:33
5 It Don't Mean a Thing (If It Ain't Got That Swing) 6:43
6 Nutty 7:29
7 Makin' Whoopee 6:25
8 Rosetta 5:08

What to play next

Listen next

The Missouri Connection

1992

Go back to

Blues March: Portrait of Art Blakey

1992

Full John Hicks discography Where to start with John Hicks Artists like John Hicks

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Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata