The contributions of this late pioneering jazz vibraphonist, composer, arranger and band leader Cal Tjader have largely been undervalued. This book is a major corrective. The greater part covers the Grammy winner's 40-year professional life, and his explorations of both Latin and jazz music. His personal life is remembered by those who knew Cal best.

The extensive research going into this book features many interviews with family, friends and colleagues both in the Bay Area and elsewhere; all the liner notes throughout Tjader's prolific recorded output; and interviews with the man himself as well as relevant articles and books. An exhaustive discography chronicles all his sessions.