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McCoy Tyner was just 23 when he was signed to Impulse and just starting to make his mark as pianist with the John Coltrane quartet. For his dates as leader, Tyner would stake out his own ground, usually eschewing the intense drive and modal themes of the Coltrane band in favor of lyrical ballads and a slightly lighter, more openly swinging approach. This compilation of Tyners work from the early 60s reveals just how well he succeeded, from the glittering standards, "Speak Low" and "Star Eyes," to collaborations with Sonny Stitt and Clark Terry that emphasize the basics of jazz communication. Tyner was also developing real skills as a composer, from the soulful "Groove Waltz" and "Blues Back" to the floating "Three Flowers." Tyners distinctive harmonic approach is evident throughout, whether hes supporting avant-garde musicians like Sonny Simmons and John Gilmore or debuting a neglected Ellington tune in "Searchin."
--Stuart Broomer
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CD > POPULAR MUSIC > ROCK