Paul Meyers - World On A String

Bitrate: 320K/s
Time: 64:04
Size: 147.1 MB
Styles: Guitar jazz
Year: 2009
Art: Front

[7:14] 1. I've Got The World On A String
[8:46] 2. Eyes That Smile
[6:43] 3. Plum
[7:15] 4. Twilight
[7:03] 5. Stars
[9:06] 6. Panama
[4:42] 7. Because
[6:45] 8. River
[6:26] 9. North Meets South

The music of nylon-string acoustic guitarist Paul Meyers isn't easily classifiable, as it has elements of several Brazilian styles, along with both straight-ahead and contemporary jazz. His rhythm section includes two Brazilians, pianist Helio Alves, and drummer/percussionist Vanderlei Pereira (who is also a fine guitarist, though he sticks to drums in these sessions), plus saxophonist Donny McCaslin, and electric bassist Leo Traversa. For example, the opener, the chestnut "I've Got the World on a String," alternates styles and rhythms in an eclectic setting, ending in mid-phrase. The Beatles' "Because" is not commonly heard in a jazz setting, but Meyers' unusual reharmonization makes it work. The remaining tunes are all Meyers' originals. The infectious "Panama" was recorded in 1989 by Gary Burton with Pat Metheny; here Pereira does double duty on percussion and marimba, with the leader adding a guitar synth pickup for a portion of the piece. Meyers' chops are best displayed in the trio setting of "Plum," which blends his intricate solo with the constantly shifting bass and drums. In essence, WORLD ON A STRING is Brazilian music, but with a decidedly personal twist. Equally conversant in straight ahead jazz and Brazilian music, guitarist Paul Meyers has shared the bandstand with the likes of Kenny Barron, Andy Bey, Jon Hendricks, Frank Wess and Wynton Marsalis while also being active on the Brazilian scene in New York.

Recording information: The Studio (02/13/2007-06/18/2007).

Paul Meyers (acoustic guitar); Leo Traversa (electric bass); Vanderlei Pereira (drums, drum, percussion).

World On A String

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