Pilgrimage

Performer: Michael Brecker
Artist: Herbie Hancock; Brad Mehldau; Pat Metheny; Jack DeJohnette; John Patitucci
Producer: Michael Brecker; Pat Metheny; Steve Rodby; Gil Goldstein
Distributor: Fontana Distribution

Notes: Personnel: Michael Brecker (EWI); Pat Metheny (guitars); Herbie Hancock, Brad Mehldau (piano); John Patitucci (bass instrument); Jack DeJohnette (drums). It's impossible to listen to the last album that Michael Brecker recorded before succumbing to cancer without a sense of profound regret at the loss of a significant talent. Brecker sounds more soulfully energized than ever on a selection that includes complex workouts such as "Anagram," as well as the beautiful, lyrical "Pilgrimage," the last tune the saxophonist recorded. Joined by an all-star roster that includes the pianists Herbie Hancock and Brad Mehldau, the drummer Jack DeJohnette, and the guitarist Pat Metheny, Brecker gives a thrilling series of performances that encompass the exhilarating "Cardinal Rule," the commercial-sounding "Five Months From Midnight," and the valedictory title track.

Down Beat (p.66) - 4 stars out of 5 -- "Crisp and joyful, with perky guitar riding on top and a driving energy, 'The Mean Time' lets you know straight out of the gate that a real band made this album..." JazzTimes (p.88) - "[H]is phrasing is more acute than ever, and the CD includes some of his best compositions."

As one half of the famous Brecker Brothers, saxophonist Michael Brecker defined the sound of modern electric funk-jazz in the '70s. Since the 1980s, he has been one of the most in-demand session players, appearing on hundreds of recordings in both the jazz and pop fields, and his solo albums have received several Grammys. Brecker is known for his powerful tone, monstrous chops, and endless soloing stamina. He passed away from a leukemia-related illness in early 2006.

Click Here for Shipping Options and Policies

Shipping or Dimension weight in pounds: 0.25