McCoy Tyner "Atlantis"

 

From Bret "Jazz Video Guy" Primack.

Atlantis (Tyner) McCoy Tyner Quintet: McCoy Tyner - piano; Azar Lawrence - soprano & tenor saxophone; Antonio Guilherme de Souza Franco - percussion; Jooney Booth - bass; and Wilbert Fletcher - drums.  Berlin Jazztage, 1974.

McCoy Tyner was a highly influential American jazz pianist known for his work as a member of the John Coltrane Quartet, as well as his own long, successful career as a bandleader and composer. Tyner passed away in 2020, but his contributions to jazz continue to be celebrated for several reasons:

1. **Innovation in Jazz**: Tyner was a pioneering figure in the development of jazz, particularly in the realm of modal jazz and post-bop. His playing pushed the boundaries of what was previously understood and accepted in the genre.

2. **Unique Style**: Tyner had a unique piano style characterized by his use of complex chords, an emphasis on the low end of the keyboard, and a percussive yet lyrical approach to improvisation. His use of fourths in constructing chords and voicings had a significant impact on the vocabulary of jazz piano.

3. **Collaboration with John Coltrane**: Tyner was a member of the John Coltrane Quartet from 1960 to 1965, one of the most revolutionary and studied groups in the history of jazz. Albums like "My Favorite Things," "A Love Supreme," and "Impressions" are considered seminal works in the jazz canon. His partnership with Coltrane significantly shaped the saxophonist's sound.

4. **Leadership and Composition**: Beyond his work with Coltrane, Tyner led his own groups and released numerous albums that stand as significant works in jazz. As a bandleader, he showcased a range of styles and was also a significant composer in his own right.

5. **Pedagogical Impact**: Tyner's techniques and compositions are widely studied in academic and practical music settings, making him an important figure for students and professionals alike.

6. **Awards and Recognition**: Tyner received multiple Grammy Awards and was a National Endowment for the Arts Jazz Master, among other honors. His accomplishments were acknowledged both within the jazz community and by the broader world of arts and culture.

7. **Longevity and Influence**: Tyner's career spanned over five decades, during which he collaborated with a vast array of musicians and continued to evolve his style. His work has influenced a wide range of musicians, not only pianists but also other instrumentalists in the world of jazz and beyond.

8. **Cultural Impact**: Beyond just the music, Tyner, like many jazz greats, had an impact on broader discussions about race, culture, and artistic freedom. His music often transcended the standard limitations of genre or style to make broader cultural statements.

9. **Versatility**: While mainly known for his role in the development of modern jazz, Tyner was a versatile musician who was comfortable in various settings, including large ensembles, solo piano performances, and cross-genre collaborations.

In summary, McCoy Tyner's innovative techniques, extensive body of work, and long-lasting influence make him a key figure in the history of jazz music.