McCoy Tyner: 70 and kickin’

Legendary jazz pianist and composer McCoy Tyner released his 82nd album as a bandleader last month. Titled “Guitars,” the album teems with unparalleled talent and ingenuity.

Backed up by the monumental rhythm section of Ron Carter on bass and Jack DeJohnette on drums, one would think the personnel couldn’t get any better-think again.

Each track features the heady shredding of master guitarists, Marc Ribot, John Scofield, Derek Trucks, Bill Frisell or banjoist Bela Fleck.

The album runs the gamut of emotions; from the joyful shuffle “Blues on the Corner” featuring John Scofield, to the angular violence of “Improvisation 2” featuring Marc Ribot.

Tyner harkens back to his days with the legendary John Coltrane Quartet by playing a superbly dreamy version of “My Favorite Things,” which the saxophonist helped to popularize and Coltrane’s “Mr. P.C.” on which Scofield simply slays with his thoughtful, melodic lines.

Tyner, who rarely brings in guitars for his studio albums, does well to diversify with five very different types of players. While all are undoubted masters, Frisell’s playing on “Boubacar” shows a nearly divine understanding of how to make a guitar gently weep.

As if the music wasn’t enough, the album is neatly bundled with an accompanying DVD complete with multiple angles, dialogue and outtakes.

Tyner’s thunderous arpeggios and witty solos are abundant throughout the album, reassuring considering his age. Having already surpassed his age in albums, Tyner has certainly commanded a lifetime of respect in the jazz world.

Grade: A+
Download (don’t steal):
“Contemplation” by McCoy Tyner.