PAT METHENY GROUP

While Pat Metheny has put out so many albums, and so much great quality music, this first Pat Metheny Group (PMG) album remains for me a pinnacle (or one of many pinnacles). It is so musical, and contains many of PM's most requested and iconic compositions. Even after probably 1000 listens, I still get goose pimples when I hear the opening (and closing) lines of "San Lorenzo". This album is more jazz than fusion, and is less progressive than, say, 'Still Life Talking' (I call PMG's music progressive jazz rather than jazz-rock fusion, as most of their work contains very little rock. But much/some of it is highly progressive). Those who do not like jazz for being jazz (as opposed to liking fusion) will not appreciate this album. But I think for anyone who likes jazz, or progressive music in general, this is an absolutely essential musical masterpiece. Phase Dance set the stage for what would become a particular style of music that PMG cornered (whenever I picture Pat Metheny playing with his ubiquitous striped shirts, it is this song that first comes to mind), and he still plays this song at virtually every gig. Jaco is PM's tribute to the legendary Jaco Pastorious, who played with PM early on, and whose if often seen as creating a new style of jazz (and jazz-fusion) bass playing. The Aprils are lovely pieces (although you have to love jazz), and Lone Jack is exceptional and will/could appeal to progressive music lovers. The musicianship on this album is first rate, and while PM absolutely shines, so does Lyle Mays's piano work. Pat Metheny has put a huge diversity of music - he is one of this century's true originals. This album shines still as one of highlights of his long career. I give it 9.6 out of 10 on my 10-point scale.