Before Bobby Hutcherson rose to fame, the vibraphone was defined by Lionel Hampton, Red Norvo and Milt Jackson. In the 1960s Hutcherson became such a dominant force that vibes players were put into one of two categories: pre or post-Hutcherson. Playing with the power, intensity and inventiveness of a pianist, Hutcherson carved out a voice for his instrument in post bop and the avant-garde.

The adventurous 1965 Blue Note release Components is distinctly divided into a side of hard bop Hutcherson originals ("Components," "Tranquillity," "Little B's Poem," "West 22nd Street Theme") and a side of avant-garde compositions from drummer Joe Chambers ("Movement," "Juba Dance," "Air," "Pastoral"). With a strong supporting cast that also includes James Spaulding (alto saxophone, flute), Freddie Hubbard (trumpet), Herbie Hancock (piano) and Ron Carter (bass), Hutcherson both supports his legacy and offers up some surprises along the way.