GARY BURTON - The New Quartet
ECM 674 3115
Gary Burton (vibraphone); Michael Goodrick (guitar); Abraham Laboriel (bass); Harry Blazer (drums)
Recorded March 1973
Quite simply this is a lovely set from Gary Burton who quite rightly was wanting to show off his New Quartet. Rather than a show or bravado from all, Burton is far too tasteful a musician for that, the vibes master has put together a programme of clearly and concisely arranged material that allows the band to shine as an ensemble first and foremost, while also permitting sufficient time for individual members to put down some impeccable solos.
It could be said that perhaps the music does not delve as deep as some of Burton's other recordings and collaborations, but that does not necessarily mean that this is music to skim over quickly, all surface gloss and no substance this disc certainly is not. The compositions have been carefully selected, and mostly composed by pianists (by chance or coincidence is not revealed), but does make for a varied set that lightens the mood and heightens the senses.
Chick Corea's 'Open Your Eyes, You Can Fly' is given a superb rendition that immediately lifts the spirit,and is neatly followed by Keith Jarrett's delicately floating 'Coral', and the leader's sole offering on this date, 'Brownout' puts down a groove for the rhythm section that give us chance to revel in the lines played by Abraham Laboriel. Difficult to believe that s was the bassist's first recording session, as he would soon find himself as one of the most in demand session musicians and going on to play on countless sessions.
Guitarist, Mick Goodrick, is in spectacular form throughout, showing his true pedigree not just in his solos, but more often than not grabbing the attention with his superb accompaniment. Listening to the way in which he supports his colleagues is quite inspirational, and giving proof (should it be needed) of his stature as a musician, and a somewhat unsung hero. And talking of unsung heroes, it is great to hear a couple of compositions from British pianist, Gordon Beck.'Tying Up Loose Ends' has a nice gentle groove that simmers gently while giving the impression that it could boil over if pushed, and elicits some concise solos from both Goodrick and Burton. By contrast, Beck's other composition, 'Mallet Man' delivers not just a catch melody, but also a great rhythmic hook. This is something that Burton relishes, and plays his most freewheeling solo of the set, and in doing so inspiring his colleagues to up the ante.
An album that follows a different path from much of Burton's output for the imprint, and as this was to be the only recording for this line up it is good to have this back in print.
ECM 674 3115
Gary Burton (vibraphone); Michael Goodrick (guitar); Abraham Laboriel (bass); Harry Blazer (drums)
Recorded March 1973
Quite simply this is a lovely set from Gary Burton who quite rightly was wanting to show off his New Quartet. Rather than a show or bravado from all, Burton is far too tasteful a musician for that, the vibes master has put together a programme of clearly and concisely arranged material that allows the band to shine as an ensemble first and foremost, while also permitting sufficient time for individual members to put down some impeccable solos.
It could be said that perhaps the music does not delve as deep as some of Burton's other recordings and collaborations, but that does not necessarily mean that this is music to skim over quickly, all surface gloss and no substance this disc certainly is not. The compositions have been carefully selected, and mostly composed by pianists (by chance or coincidence is not revealed), but does make for a varied set that lightens the mood and heightens the senses.
Chick Corea's 'Open Your Eyes, You Can Fly' is given a superb rendition that immediately lifts the spirit,and is neatly followed by Keith Jarrett's delicately floating 'Coral', and the leader's sole offering on this date, 'Brownout' puts down a groove for the rhythm section that give us chance to revel in the lines played by Abraham Laboriel. Difficult to believe that s was the bassist's first recording session, as he would soon find himself as one of the most in demand session musicians and going on to play on countless sessions.
Guitarist, Mick Goodrick, is in spectacular form throughout, showing his true pedigree not just in his solos, but more often than not grabbing the attention with his superb accompaniment. Listening to the way in which he supports his colleagues is quite inspirational, and giving proof (should it be needed) of his stature as a musician, and a somewhat unsung hero. And talking of unsung heroes, it is great to hear a couple of compositions from British pianist, Gordon Beck.'Tying Up Loose Ends' has a nice gentle groove that simmers gently while giving the impression that it could boil over if pushed, and elicits some concise solos from both Goodrick and Burton. By contrast, Beck's other composition, 'Mallet Man' delivers not just a catch melody, but also a great rhythmic hook. This is something that Burton relishes, and plays his most freewheeling solo of the set, and in doing so inspiring his colleagues to up the ante.
An album that follows a different path from much of Burton's output for the imprint, and as this was to be the only recording for this line up it is good to have this back in print.
