Concert Review by: Katrina-Kasey Wheeler
Venue: Yoshi's (Oakland, California)
December 29th, 2006 - When an individual has the opportunity to hear one of the greatest jazz
pianists of all time perform, accompanied by three no-less notable musical
peers, it is truly a magnificent occasion. On a brisk December evening, the
excitement in the air was tangible, as an eclectic crowd consisting of
multi-generational jazz aficionados and music fans alike converged at the famed
and intimate jazz club Yoshi’s in Oakland, California. Minutes before the first
set started, I took my seat at table forty-seven which, unbeknownst to me,
memorializes Phil Elwood, one of the nation’s leading jazz critics, renowned for
his work with the San Francisco Examiner and the San Francisco
Chronicle.
The lights dimmed, the rampant talk was reduced to a whisper, and then as
Christian McBride, Joe Lovano, Jeff “Tain” Watts, and McCoy Tyner took the
stage, the audience' applause foreshadowed what was to be a night of
unadulterated jazz at its best. As I had expected, the stage was set for an
evening promising sheer pleasure along with no small amount of musical
illumination.
McCoy Tyner’s performance was nothing short of phenomenal, his creations
distinguished, zealous, and refined. As the evening progressed, each song
acquired beauty exceeding the previous selection. Along with the sublime and
transcendent moments were intimate, privileged ones, as though the legendary
pianist was granting us all access to his innermost self. His piano acted as the
medium for his creative voice, expressing meditative, transporting melodic
reveries. When Tyner plays, he is in a state of grace, of total surrender to his
instrument and muse, and yet undeniably a master of his craft.
Christian McBride exuded undeniable charisma and prowess, enthralling an
audience whose silent attention alone spoke volumes. On many of the bassist's
solos, it immediately became obvious why he stands out among other players: the
tone of his bass is as buoyantly effervescent as it is deep and woody. Moreover,
he plays as much in the moment as in the groove, achieving a an extraordinary,
life-like presence of sound. The instrument becomes an extension of the artist,
or a juncture where the mind, body, and soul meet as one to create melodious
liaisons.
Jeff “Tain” Watts is one of the most imitated yet never duplicated drummers
of his time. Each of his solos was a commanding demonstration by a percussion
master while his supportive accompaniment was a model of perfect time. Like his
rhythm section partner, he played as though enveloped in the instant, making it
expand and contract to his bidding.
Joe Lovano’s playing shined throughout the evening and repeatedly proved that
jazz is alive, well, and swinging! Except for his tone, which is exclusive to
him, Lovano sounded as though he was channeling the legendary Charlie Parker.
As I sat and listened, I felt as though I were watching history unfold, and I
knew at that instant that I was feeling much the same as those who were
fortunate to hear the greats perform. I was hearing a living legend and a
company of legends in the making. Throughout the evening there were emotional
peaks and valleys explored through the deeply penetrative music, moving the
listener from pensive thoughts to exhilarating excitement, ultimately casting a
mesmerizing, captivating and lasting spell.
Music is a powerful unifying force. In attendance were parents with their
children, married couples, single people, all there to see and hear these
compelling storytellers give us a glimpse into their life, their love jazz, and
perhaps into our own souls. The trio epitomized what jazz should be: pure,
undiluted, vibrant and affecting.
Throughout the evening each song was executed with such intelligence and
luminosity that the music will stay etched in my mind forever.
For more information: http://www.Yoshis.com
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