Join jazz drummer and bandleader and NEA Jazz Master Foreststorn "Chico" Hamilton as he HITS with four breathtakingly remarkable new releases on Joyous Shout! in 2006 in celebration of his 85^th birthday.

On "Heritage", the final of the four releases, Chico REMINISCES through his original compositions on: the vibes and sounds of his childhood growing up in LA (on "Chicano Heritage"); and his friends Luther Henderson (on "Lu Tu"), Arnie Lawrence (on "One for Arnie"), Gerry Mulligan (on "Mulligan Stew), Gabor Szabo (on "One for Gabor"), Hale Smith (on "One for Hale"), and Lennie Hayton (on "One for Lennie"). Reprising his special guest appearances on "Juniflip", "Believe" and "6th Avenue Romp" is former Hamilton band member trombonist George Bohanon, lending his powerful and unique voice to 10 tracks on "Heritage". Marya Lawrence, daughter of former Hamilton band member Arnie Lawrence, lends her sweet & sassy vocals on two tracks: "I Gotta Right To Sing The Blues" (on an arrangement based on the version done by the original Gerald Wilson big band in the 40’s), and "Love Me Or Leave Me" (on an arrangement based on the version performed by Lena Horne when Chico was part of her ensemble in the 50’s). Chico takes a vocal bow himself on "Something To Live For", written by his friend and mentor Billy Strayhorn. In special tribute to his hero and mentor, Chico and his "Euphoria" group sink their teeth into three Gerald Wilson originals: "Viva Tirado" with a burning opening from guitarist Cary DeNigris, followed by a powerful statement from George Bohanon, and percussionist Jeremy Carlstedt blazing away thru the entire track; "Blues for Yna Yna" harmonically explored in the opening as a duo by guitarist Cary DeNigris and tenor saxist Evan Schwam, until the band comes in backing DeNigris’ bluesy guitaristics; and "Yard Dog Marzurka" with its genre defining solo from tenor saxist Evan Schwam.

Always HIP and ever the consummate MODERNIST, Chico invites the listener to join him and his cohorts as they reminisce on scenes, sights, and personalities that have shaped and influenced Chico in his 85 year (and going strong!!) journey, illustrating why Foreststorn "Chico" Hamilton is a NEA JAZZ MASTER and Still THE Man for EVERY GENERATION!!