Search - Larry Coryell :: Cedars of Avalon

Top-Flight Jazz

Gregory Edwards | Fremont, CA USA | 11/11/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"In a career spanning more than 35 years, Larry Coryell has appeared on more than 200 albums, 65 as a leader, and it is safe to say that his latest, "Cedars of Avalon" is one of his best. Backed by the A-list support of Cedar Walton on piano, Buster Williams on bass, and Billy Drummond on drums, and recorded at the famed Van Gelder Studios, this luscious sounding album brings Coryell to the land of traditional jazz. In it we hear richly-layered guitar tones, crystalline keyboards, and a rhythm section that is both subtle and convincing. The record opens with the title track, the leader's opus to the veteran pianist. The tricky melody lays the groundwork for the musical solos that are to be found throughout the album. With an intro that would certainly give Monk a big grin, the band's rendition of "Bemsha Swing" moves them firmly into hard-bop. Walton shows just how strong a soloist he can be as he brings taste and tradition to this session. Coryell tactfully opens with a lyrical eight bars and then begins to blow, as he and Walton show just how well they play together on Walton's exciting piece "Fantasy in D." Walton's commanding highly-melodic lines often bring to mind sounds of the orient.The lovely rendition of "Theme for Ernie" is a showcase for Coryell's deep understanding of its changes. Coryell's blending of discordant and melodic lines produce both strong tension and emotion. On "Limehouse Blues," Coryell plays both rhythm and lead on an acoustic guitar. When he brings the tempo up, we are reminded of his acoustic sets from the 1970s.The record continues with a strong version of Wes Montgomery's "D-Natural Blues," lovely versions of "What's New" and "It Could Happen to You," and the fiery modern Walton piece "Newest Blues." Rounding out the session is Coryell's sublime acoustic piece "Shapes." Enriched by the recording genius of Rudy Van Gelder, we hear the beauty of Coryell's finger plucked guitar.If you are traditional jazz fan, or you just love beautiful music, this album will be a welcome addition to your Christmas list."

This guy never ceases to amaze

Seventies Funk | West New York, NJ United States | 01/08/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Talk about inspiring! Coryell's back catalog is enough already to denote him as true innovator and inspirational guitarist through the last 30 years. Now Larry comes back with a selection of standards and origional tracks that continues the growth and achievement. His playing still has the same fire it did in the late 60's and 70's, but with the harmonic complexities he has been exploring with newer straight ahead releases such as "Monk, Trane, Miles and Me" and "Inner Urge". Coryell's sideman once again do an outstanding job, and I was especially blown away by pianist Cedar Walton. Those that haven't heard Larry's more recent straight ahead output are seriously missing out! Fusion fans, rock guitar fans will enjoy this release immensily as it shows a true artist still developing 34 years into his career, commited to improvisation. Also do not miss him live when he comes to your area!"

Talk about graceful aging !

R. J. Marsella | California | 06/15/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"this is a straightahead set of beautifully played jazz that reflects a lifetime of experience. To hear larry Coryell in this format is to appreciate him as a master guitarist. Accompanied by the equally brilliant Cedar Walton, the music just soars and yet has a deep traditional feel all at once. Buster Williams is a wonderfull bass player and his lines never sounded better than they do here. Every cut is special. This ranks right up there with some of the best jazz guitar albums of all time in my opinion with the added bonus of having Cedar Walton's eloquent soloing (especially on Theme for Ermie). I can't recommend this enough...a real gem."