McCoy Tyner
Guitars
Half Note/McCoy Records
By George W. Harris

Technically, this disc is inaccurately named; with banjoist Bela Fleck, a more appropriate title would something like “Frets”. Anyway, celebrating his 70th birthday with this release, McCoy Tyner shows in this release that he’s got no inclination to rest on his laurels. Teaming up as a trio with old friends Ron Carter/b and jack DeJohnette/dr, he mixes it up with stringers of diverse styles and generations: Marc Ribot, John Scofield, Bela Fleck, Derek Trucks and Bill Frisell. The results are similar to Duke Ellington’s meeting with John Coltrane Quartet, it’s more illustrative of the musical ecumenical attitude of the host than of the vision of the younger guests.

Tyner is on his game here, and he seems to be inspired by the stylistic variety. Marc Ribot indulges him for a few improvisations with his experimental voicings, but is up to the challenge of “500 Miles.” Returning to a sideman role, Scofield seems to be having the time of his life, tearing through “Mr PC” with delight. Fleck’s technical wizardry creates the most musical sparks, with a well versed “My Favorite Things” and digitally dangerous “Trade Winds”. It almost feels like the Allman Brothers sit in with Tyner when Trucks joins the foray, with some southern back porch playing on “Slapback Blues” and an evocative “Greensleeves.” Frisell displays some chops on “Contemplation” and also cajoles his leader with some sonic musings on “Baba Drame”. The fact that Tyner is able to adapt to these diverse styles so successfully speaks volumes about his durability over the years. The accompanying dvd is a bonus testament to the art and artistry of the real McCoy.