McCoy Tyner's "Enlightenment" is a captivating journey through the realms of jazz, released on January 1, 1990, under the Milestone label. This album is a testament to Tyner's mastery of various jazz subgenres, including hard bop, cool jazz, bebop, and free jazz, all seamlessly blended into a cohesive and dynamic collection of tracks.
The album opens with "Presenting The McCoy Tyner Quartet," setting the stage for the enchanting "Enlightenment Suite," a three-part masterpiece recorded live at Montreux. Each part of the suite—"Genesis," "The Offering," and "Inner Glimpse"—showcases Tyner's exceptional skill and innovative approach to jazz composition and performance. The live energy from Montreux is palpable, adding an extra layer of excitement and spontaneity to these tracks.
"Presence" and "Nebula," also recorded live at Montreux, continue the album's high-energy trajectory, demonstrating Tyner's ability to captivate audiences with his virtuosic playing. The album concludes with "Walk Spirit, Talk Spirit," a fitting finale that leaves the listener with a sense of fulfillment and awe.
With a total runtime of 1 hour and 9 minutes, "Enlightenment" is a substantial and rewarding listen, offering a deep dive into the genius of McCoy Tyner. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to his work, this album is sure to impress with its technical brilliance, emotional depth, and sheer musicality.
Vinylscout