Michael Brecker | Pilgrimage
Understandably, there is what is conceived as great musicians, and then there are the ones who aspire to be. The legendary and multi-Grammy Award Winning saxophonist Michael Brecker sits humbly in the former position. He is without question, in the hearts and minds of music aficionados around the globe as being one of the most influential artists in the history of modern music.
Although, fascinated by the intricate details of Michael Brecker’s enormous songbook, I couldn’t help but be swayed by the spirit of his deepest emotions as he unleashed them on this project. You see, by Brecker chronicling through the footprints of his intriguing career he’s unmasked an aura of magnificent beauty, a true masterpiece with “Pilgrimage.”
Due to Michael’s exhausting illness with “Leukemia,” what I found inspirational about this project is how he gracefully endured the pain, and suffering well playing with an abundance of joy during this session. With each listen, you’ll hear his persuasive voice used as an expressive tool linked to his unwavering vitality. Therefore, the strength of his character is unveiled and passion for music rapidly progresses with each immeasurable note of excellence is truly a remarkable manifestation!
By now, I’m sure you’ve all seen the cast of musicians that adorned this wonderful project by Michael. Without a doubt, this dream ensemble would humble and make any composer rejoice. His esteem colleagues featured in the studio are the gifted Herbie Hancock, Pat Metheny, Brad Mehldau, John Patitucci, and Jack DeJohnette.
Compositionally, “Pilgrimage” includes nine extraordinary jewels by Michael. The opening track, “The Mean Time,” soars with hard boppin attitude and the swinging signature of Brecker’s voice soon coupled by the distinctive riffs of guitarist Pat Metheny, and DeJohnette’s agility on drums properly attached to Herbie’s lingering yet communicative touch on the piano.
Pianists Mehldau, and Brecker compliment each other by splattering tones of grandeur as their interplay springs back and forth with consistency that allows room for Metheny’s compatible voicing and patterns layered by amazing colors is one my favorite tunes called “Five Months from Midnight.” In addition, the whispers of echoes of “When Can I Kiss You Again?” is a sobering question that was posed by his teenage son after discovering he was prohibited from being close to his dad due to his illness well in the hospital.
Throughout this project the “spirit of celebration,” was embedded in the hearts of everyone involved. You can hear it in the sequence, and various tempos of these mesmerizing gems. Indeed, the velocity of Michael’s voice describes with noble distinction the legacy of his definitive contribution to jazz as a player, composer, and friend to the music. With every spin, jazz enthusiast will marvel as they indulge in Michael’s poignant, yet, final expedition that’s appropriately titled “Pilgrimage.” Yes, family, friends, and associates alike will undoubtedly adore this record immensely [it fits perfectly into the frame of his most compelling body of work]. Finally, it goes without saying, “Pilgrimage,” comes “Highly Recommended” and for those of you who are simply seeking great music, please pick it up … ASAP!
~ Rob Young
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