Rather remarkably, Terry Gibbs, the celebrated vibist and bandleader, is still with us at the great age of 98 – and alert enough to participate in this warm-hearted tribute to his other talent, that of songwriting. All 15 compositions here are his, each melodically strong, with lyrics added by various Hollywood specialists.

Some are a tad saccharine in tone and narrative style, but they all swing, and that was always TG’s preferred way to play. His son, the fine drummer Gerry G., corralled this Legacy ensemble, sensibly enlisting Hamilton, and Allen since they echo his dad’s preference for tenormen who sound like Lester Young, with Ranier contributing nicely made charts and crisp piano, supported by occasional synth underlays.

The tenorists solo or accompany as each piece dictates and they sound just fine, both relaxed and at ease, Allen the more urgent, Hamilton behind the beat, his tone the warmer of the two. Typically, ‘Let’s Go To Rio’ has them both on call, each soloing with commendable zest, echoing the song’s breezy story line.

Hamilton is especially good on Gibbs’ ballads, notably on ‘If I Were You’ with its recall of lost love. ‘Play And Sing’ has Ranier fleshing out the ensemble on trumpet, and is a brightly zippy piece, everyone on form. Jazz Times Best Male Vocalist Bacher handles the lyrics much in the manner of Harry Connick, and enjoys a few nostalgic exchanges with Terry G on the feisty ‘Now’s The Time To Groove’ with the great man adding his two-finger piano.

Said to be Terry G’s last-ever album appearance after eight decades of making records, it was certainly a swinging affair with classy playing from all concerned. Bravo, Terry!