Written by Patrick Jarenwattananon from NPR
Few pianists have been as influential to modern jazz practice as McCoy Tyner. His harmonic and rhythmic conceptions, notably displayed as a member of John Coltrane’s “classic” quartet, are instantly recognizable. And at age 74, you can still hear his driving left hand and dense chordal suggestions in fine form. For the opening of the SFJAZZ Center, Tyner called his strolling “Walk Spirit, Talk Spirit,” with a multi-generational quartet. Then he played a happy blues to welcome some Bay Area jazz royalty: alto saxophonist John Handy and vibraphonist Bobby Hutcherson. Hutcherson has emphysema, and requires an oxygen supply; his entire being lit up when it came time to play with the pianist he’s collaborated with for nearly 50 years.
Personnel
“Walk Spirit, Talk Spirit”
- McCoy Tyner, piano
- Joe Lovano, tenor saxophone
- Esperanza Spalding, bass
- Eric Harland, drums
“Blues On The Corner”
- McCoy Tyner, piano
- Bobby Hutcherson, vibraphone
- John Handy, alto saxophone
- Joshua Redman, tenor saxophone
- Bill Frisell, guitar
- Matt Penman, bass
- Eric Harland, drums
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