It was only natural that a volume of the compilation series The Montreux Years should one day be devoted to the great pianist Chick Corea who, over the course of his long and brilliant career, performed no less than 23 times at the prestigious jazz festival. Skilfully composed of eight tracks extracted from six performances between 1981 and 2010, this album offers a fairly detailed overview of the various musical directions the pianist has taken over the years. It’s an excellent introduction to his bright and generous artistic universe which has constantly sought a balance between tradition and modernity, writing and improvisation, lyricism and experimentation...
Making sure to cover the full spectrum of genres Corea experimented with, the album escapes to the realm of jazz-fusion (‘Interlude’, recorded in 2004 with the Elektric Band) and the world of neo-classical concerto (‘America (Continents, Pt.4)’, recorded in 2006, presenting the pianist, composer and soloist alongside the Bavarian Chamber Philharmonic Orchestra). However, it generally focuses on the genius modern acoustic jazz that Corea was known for in the latter part of his career. In 1988, he led his Akoustik Band (John Patitucci and Dave Weckl) to produce a magnificent cover of Quartet No.2. and in 2001, he was joined by the members of his New Trio (Avishai Cohen and Jeff Ballard) to create two divine pieces (‘Fingerprints’ and ‘Dignity’), demonstrating his astonishing creative and technical capacity.
A special mention goes to the vibrant tributes to two sacred jazz piano giants that Corea always cited as his idols: Bud Powell, for the piece of the same name recorded in 2010 alongside Kenny Garrett, Christian McBride and Roy Haynes; and Thelonious Monk for a mischievous cover of ‘Trinkle Tinkle’ recorded in 1981 with his quartet. A great way for the pianist to show his appreciation for these jazz masters as he takes his seat alongside them. ©Stéphane Ollivier/Qobuz