Three Guitars - The Paris Concert at New Morning - Larry Coryell,Badi Assad,John Abercrombie DVD Review

DVD Review

In the serious music fraternity Larry Coryell and John Abercrombie, are considered to be two of the best guitarists in the world. Joining them at this intimate gig at New Morning Paris is 'Renaissance Woman' Mariangela 'Badi' Assad, the Brazilian singer-songwriter.

Under the touring concept of The Three Guitars, which they released as a CD in August 2003, we get to see and hear the formidable threesome at close range nearly 12 months later on June 14 2004.

Targeted at serious Jazz fans, this trio showcase their combined and individual talent in an informal and relaxed atmosphere.

Low on visual thrills, but high on music content, the trio pull out the 'dexterity' stops to impress the Parisienne audience. Mostly self-taught, with 35 years of experience and 70 albums under his belt, Coryell is recognised as a true innovator of Jazz-fusion, dubbed the 'Godfather of Fusion', ( here he more than justifies the tag ) he's brought Abercrombie on board to add further depth to the repertoire. Multi - instrumentalist Abercrombie, in his youth a big fan of Rock'n'Roll like Coryell, he brings a more sedate and eloquent angle to the set, and is able to synthesise his skills for all contexts. Sandwiched between both, Assad brings her refreshing contemporary new world -jazz outlook onboard. Collectively, they make the most beautiful music, with a high emphasis on improvisation which meanders through the never ending colours of the melodic spectrum. Assad also provides sophisticated audio add-ons through her incredible vocal gymnastics as she effortlessly concocts the sounds of several instruments, eventually breaking into song on the sensual closing song - Corcovado ( the hill upon which the statue of Christ The Redeemer stands ) in Rio de Janeiro.

Using multi angled shots and an abundance of close-ups, we get to see the three masters doing their thing almost at first hand- their skill factor is quite breathtaking, with, in my opinion, Coryell proving the most gifted of the three- his delicate touch is masterfully exquisite to say the least.

A defining moment in modern jazz, and well worth viewing, if you can slog out the 75 minutes.

Elly Roberts