Mike Metheny - Close Enough For Love
Independent release
3v-001
Trumpeter Mike
Metheny takes flight on this new CD release titled "Close
Enough For Love." There's no doubt that Mike Metheny is
a seasoned veteran demonstrating full command of his instruments
both on the cornet and the electric EVI. The general mood and
tone is relaxing throughout as the band performs in a variety
of classic Jazz styles including swing and contemporary grooves.
The opening track "Pretty" is an uptempo Brazilian
Jazz samba in which Mike is heard on the EVI. Although Mike Metheny
demostrates technical agility on the EVI, his sound is dull and
filled with cliche arpeggios and licks that would only satisfy
a begining Jazz student. His solo seems to go on for an eternety--simply
boring. Fortunately saxophonist Bill Caldwell saves the day with
a nice solo. Although the band seems able, there's basically
no interaction as if the band first recorded the rhythm tracks
and then the lead players recorded on top.
Next, Mike is heard on the cornet on his original "Attitude
Blues" featuring an exhilarating solo by bassist Bob Bowman.
Pianist Paul Smith adds a light touch with a solo of his own.
On the following title track "Close Enough For Love"
Metheny demostrates depth of musical character when he picks
up the Flugel horn on this slow swing balad. What a gorgeous
sound! Back on the EVI, Metheny and band perform a medium tempo
swing "Yes, I've Met Miss Jones." The band swings,
he doesn't--as if this instrument holds him back. Sounds generic.
Bowman, however, cranks out another tasty solo.
Matheny explores the smooth sounds of the bossa nova on "The
Fox" and "Ta-Ta For Now" featuring special guest
his brother guitarist Pat Metheny. Track 9 is the lovely classic
"My Foolish Heart." And the last track "The greatest
Love Of All" is a waste of recording space and time as the
horn purposely performs throughout the song completely out of
tune. Perhaps it was an inside joke amoung the musicians? More
like sour grapes.
Mike Metheny is best heard performing on the ballads. While
his tone is expressive on the flugel horn, his overall lack of
creativity particularly on the EVI makes this recording simply
forgettable. However, some of the material may be more sutable
for a smooth Jazz format.
review by John Davis
JDavis@latnjazzclub.com
Contributing writer
LatinJazzClub.com Magazine
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