Pianist Tardo Hammer, steeped in the vernacular of the classic post-bop trio, convenes with bassist Lee Hudson and drummer Steve Williams for this alluring song-oriented set. The improvisation sparkles, but it’s repertoire that gives Swinging on a Star its distinctive atmosphere: Hammer’s frame of reference encompasses Bing Crosby, George Gershwin, Charlie Parker, Billy Strayhorn, and Thelonious Monk, to name a few. All of these the trio tackles with ingenuity and palpable commitment.