Search - McCoy Tyner :: Definitive McCoy Tyner

Pianist McCoy Tyner's originality was already apparent when he joined John Coltrane's quartet in 1960, bringing a new energy to modal jazz with his interlocking block chords and right-hand runs executed with trip-hammer force. This compilation is an excellent introduction, tracing Tyner's work through highlights from 1962 to 1997. His distinctive energy drives the early "Inception," and he has only gained in force and focus for two tracks from the classic 1967 album, The Real McCoy. Tyner, tenor saxophonist Joe Henderson, and drummer Elvin Jones press one another to their expressive limits on "Passion Dance" and demonstrate rare lyric depths on "Search for Peace." Tyner's many facets are touched on here. "May Street" combines his angular creativity with vibraphonist Bobby Hutcherson, while a deep Latin groove--at once light and decisive--propels "Peresina." The final three tracks are all compositions by John Coltrane recorded by Tyner in the 1990s. The beautiful "Lonnie's Lament" receives a moving solo treatment; Michael Brecker's tenor contributes high energy to Coltrane's signature "Impressions"; the ballad "Naima" is heard in a luminous extended treatment from a trio with bassist George Mraz and drummer Al Foster. It's a compelling introduction to one of the most distinctive pianists in jazz. --Stuart Broomer