Jazz legends and long-time collaborators Gary Burton (vibes), Pat Metheny (guitar) and Steve Swallow (bass) reunite, along with drumming sensation Antonio Sanchez, under the "Gary Burton Quartet" moniker. The band may be currently on tour in a town near you, as I type this. The 11 tracks assembled here were recorded live in Oakland at Yoshi's Jazz Club.
This collection of songs features numbers penned by three members of the quartet as well as from Jazz giants such as Keith Jarrett (Coral), Chick Corea (Sea Journey), and Duke Ellington (Fleurette Africaine). The music produced by the quartet isn't "smooth jazz" per se , but it is a less frenetic form of jazz. The absence of horns and reeds does lend the music a more laid back sound. However, this doesn't mean the entire band doesn't tear it up! Metheny in particular seems in fine form. His idosyncratic sound and fluid fretwork dominate most tracks. In fact every member , when given the spotlight, showcases his particular prowess on his chosen instrument. The overall result is a very polished, extremely accomplished jazz set by 4 musicians on top of their game. Fans of the quartet or of any of the individual members will be well served here. This is a great, relaxing disc for those hot summer evenings went you just want to sit back and chill with a cold beverage and some hot jazz.
Track Listing
- Sea Journey (9:00)
- Olhos de Gato (6:36)
- Falling Grace (7:18)
- Coral (6:23)
- Walter L (5:30)
- B and G (Midwestern Night's Dream) (6:53)
- Missouri Uncompromised (7:34)
- Fleurette Africaine (Little African Flower) (7:34)
- Hullo, Bolinas (4:48)
- Syndrome (4:42)
- Question and Answer (13:02)
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