Customer Reviews

Remembering John

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McCoy Tyner was in the midst of a busy recording schedule when this album was taped in February 1991. That doesn't seem to have bothered him, though. Right from the beginning of the first track, Tyner makes his intentions known. The piano seems to turn into a wild animal when he touches the keys. No cocktail jazz for the real McCoy ! Bass and drums keep up tremendously well, especially Avery Sharpe on bass shows his considerable talent at every opportunity. All 3 instruments are excellently recorded. This album is a tribute to John Coltrane, for many years Tyner's employer and bandleader, and Tyner brings a refreshing approach to all the tunes. A very energetic "India", a brief but powerful "Giant Steps", a beautifully lyrical "The wise one". The trio produces fresh and vibrant versions of 6 of Coltrane's compositions. For some obscure reason, 3 non-Coltrane standards have crept into the album, and although they somewhat stand out compared to the Coltrane-tracks, they are still very good in their own right.

The title speaks for itself, McCoy is again honoring the music of the Quartet, and some other standards are included too. The trio is solid and the support for Tyner is sure. For me the highlights were the rarely played One in Four (aka Mr. Day?) which was really bright and percussive, and a beautiful rendering of Wise One. It is so easy to take Tyner for granted - all he does is consistently produce good music. This is a very worthwhile CD, you won't be disappointed.