Bert Myrick: Live'n Well

Rating: ★★★★

Record and Artist Details

Musicians:

John Fields (ts)
Will Austin (b)
Kenny Cox (el p)
Bert Myrick (d)
George Bohannon (tb)

April/2018

Catalogue Number:

BBE 418 ACD

RecordDate:

1969

Another fascinating slice of independent American jazz history which makes the point, if at all needed, that there are possibly still more unknown quantities than there are known in the music. Drummer Bert Myrick was part of the enviably fertile Detroit jazz scene of the 1960s and, like another musician who stayed local rather than went national (organist Lyman Woodard), he was given an opportunity to record by the feted Strata East label. It was a perfect fit, as this session is very much in keeping with the sound developed by Strata artists such as Charles Tolliver, namely an astute blend of post-Trane modalism and swing, with the distinct edginess in the rhythm section significantly bolstered by the leader's very tasteful polyrhythmic drive. The four lengthy compositions have rich harmony from pianist Kenny Cox and a highly engaging blend of moments of solo intensity and leisurely variations on mostly minor themes. Occasionally albums are reissued for their rarity rather than musical value, but this is actually a very accomplished piece of work from a figure who, greatly respected among the cognoscenti, certainly does not deserve to languish in obscurity.

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