by Scott Yanow
Although listed under Stan Getz's name, The Peacocks is really a showcase for pianist Jimmy Rowles, an underrated stylist beloved by singers and musicians alike. Rowles is heard in exquisite duets with Getz, solo, in a quartet with Getz, bassist Buster Williams and drummer Elvin Jones, and on &The Chess Players& during which the quartet is joined by four vocalists including three from Jon Hendricks' family. Most memorable are the haunting title cut, &Lester Left Town& and several of Rowles' touching vocals.