Record Reviews

LARRY CORYELL ~ LAID BACK & BLUES RHOMBUS 7066 (Barcode: 768707706624) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 2006 Released: 2006 This is a live album by American Jazz guitarist / composer / bandleader Larry CoryellFind albums by this artist, recorded in a quartet setting with pianist Marc SealesFind albums by this artist, bassist Chuck DeardorfFind albums by this artist and drummer Dean HodgesFind albums by this artist. Vocalist Tracey PiergrossFind albums by this artist guests on one track. The album presents ten tracks, seven of which are original compositions by Coryell and three are Jazz / Blues standards. The album offers exceptional sound quality considering it was a rather informal live recording. During the last decade of Coryell’s life, before his tragically premature death in 2017, he recorded a dozen albums, mostly live, which present a chaotic collection of material of often disappointing quality. However, this album is absolutely superb from start to finish, recorded obviously in a relaxed atmosphere and featuring excellent musicians, who support Coryell amicably and with abilities worthy of his genius. His guitar work is brilliant, as always, and for his many fans this is a most welcome return to his early Jazz career, without any Fusion traces. His virtuosity is undeniable and his technique unparalleled. Overall, this is a most welcome addition to the extensive legacy of one of the greatest Jazz guitarists in all time, which sadly is very little known as most of his late recordings. Therefore, I really recommend to all Jazz guitar lovers to try and find a copy if this gem, as it is worthy of being heard and admired, and becoming a part of any serious record collection.

Updated: 28/09/2025Posted: 28/09/2025

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