After a very successful career recording great jazz on Blue Note Records in the sixties, and his boundless journey into jazz-fusion in the seventies the legendary pianist, visionary, producer, and arranger Herbie Hancock is back with purpose of marrying two genres jazz, and pop music on the highest level on his latest recording titled “River” [The Joni Letters]. Being a resident of steward of great musicianship, Hancock once again assembled some of the finest instrumentalists, and vocalists alike to blend the intricacies, textures, and phrases with excellence to the beloved music of Joni Mitchell.

As I see it, tributes or homage to an artist’s music can be a little risky simply because one or two things could happen … “victory” or “misery of defeat” might prevail [of course this could happen with all original music]. However, in this case, the symmetry and interpretations of Ms Mitchell’s songs are strikingly fluid as Hancock envelops [you] the listener with intimate, and exquisite continuity of playing from the opening note[s].

Being a novice of instrumental music, I immediately knew Herbie would employ the best talent available to refine Joni’s songs as he features Wayne Shorter [saxophones], Dave Holland [bassist/guitar], and Vinnie Colaiuta [drums] these cats enhanced these quality arrangements, and compositions with perfection.

In today’s music climate, it’s very difficult to say if fans of Joni Mitchell embrace this project or not. Consider this, with vocalists like Nora Jones, Tina Tuner, Corinne Bailey Rae, Luciana Souza, and spoken word, artistry of Leonard Cohen on hand this project certainly doesn’t fall short of last years “Possibilities” by Hancock. Nevertheless, it is my desire to see jazz lovers encompass this collection of songs, which will hopefully expand the palette of music enthusiasts everywhere because this is some neat stuff!

~ Rob Young