Speaking Of Now
- Details
- Published Date
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TITLE: |
Speaking Of Now |
| ARTIST: | Pat Metheny | |
| WRITER: |
David So | |
| Is "Speaking Of Now" (2002) speaking of "now"? After exploring into the territory of the trio (Pat Metheny, Lyle Mays and Steve Rodby) in "Trio 90 -> 00" (2000) and "Trio Live" (2000) for three years, Pat Metheny returns to his earlier successful form, |
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| Pat Metheny Group (PMG) with three new members added - Richard Bona (a vocal and percussionist from West Africa), Cuong Vu (a Vietnamese-American trumpeter) and Antonio Sanchez (a Mexican drummer). The new PMG's continues its Brazilian feel which can be traced back to "Still Life (Talking)" (1987), "Letter from Home" (1989) and "We Live Here" (1994). In the mellow "You" and "Afternoon", Richard Bona brings back the same Brazilian wordless vocal reminiscent of Pedro Aznar in "First Circle" (1984) or Nana Vasconcelos in "Travels" (1982). In "Proof" and "A Place In the World", Cuong Vu exhibits his Mark Isham-like beautiful trumpet solo, intensifying the moody atmosphere while Antonio Sanchez exhibits his powerful and impressive drumming. Soloing from Pat Metheny's guitar and Lyle Mays' piano in "Proof" confirms their leading status as jazz guitarists and pianists respectively. Steve Rodby's supporting bass also adds much impetus to the PMG. So all the PMG members have done their part very well in producing its unique sound and quality. Afterall, it is beyond doubt that "Speaking Of Now" is a well calculated success with hauntingly beautiful music. Yet, with a new line-up, the new PMG has not pointed a new musical direction like what the Pat Metheny Trio has done. Could Coung Vu have played even more leading solos? "Speaking Of Now" (2002) has brought too few surprises. It is speaking of the "beautiful past" which, however, will not disappoint PMG fans. |
Speaking Of Now