McCoy Tyner

4 STARS ALL MUSIC GUIDE

24 BIT MASTER DIGIPAK EDITION

PERSONNEL:

McCoy Tyner (p)
Avery Sharpe (b)
& Aaron Scott (d).

Recorded in New York, February 27 & 28, 1991.

On this 1991 trio recording with Avery Sharpe (bass) and Aaron Scott (drums), McCoy Tyner draws on compositions from the John Coltrane catalogue. It is an enjoyable, coherent and well-paced set. Sharpe's bass sounds full and centered, and Scott--with his splashy feel--recalls Elvin Jones (although the drums are recorded a bit too low in the mix). Tyner was the pianist in Coltrane's pioneering quartet from 1960-65. In the 1970s, with producer Orrin Keepnews, he made a dozen albums. They showcased his powerhouse piano playing in different settings--solo, small group, big band, orchestral and choral. (One of those, "Echoes of a Friend," a florid solo piano album, is also a remembrance of John Coltrane.) In the 1980s, Tyner continued to be an active performer and groupleader, known for his trademark, cascading piano sound. This effort is modest and tinged with nostalgia. Tyner's playing is confident and adept, almost careful. At times it sounds like he trying to stay within the lines of the coloring book but, for the most part, the restraint is welcome. The Coltrane compositions still have the power to evoke an era. "India," and "The Wise One" are given particularly successful readings, conveying deep yearning.

Tracks:
01. India
02. Giant Steps
03. In Walked Bud
04. Like Someone In Love
05. One And Four
06. Up Against The Wall
07. Good Morning Heartache
08. Pursuance
09. The Wise One.