Solar: McCoy Tyner Trio Live at Sweet Basil

by Ken DrydenMcCoy Tyner is featured in a 1991 date at Sweet Basil in New York City, with his long time bassist Avery Sharpe and the more recent arrival, drummer Aaron Scott, who replaced Louis Hayes just a couple of years earlier. A driving post-bop interpretation of Miles Davis' "Solar" is followed by a jaunty, swinging take of Duke Ellington's "Don't Get Around Much Anymore." Tyner's solo interpretation of "Darn That Dream" showcases the pianist's trademarked lightning like runs. The set is rounded out by two of Tyner's originals, his spontaneous tribute to Thelonious Monk, the thunderous "Blues for T.M.," and the equally crowd pleasing "La Habana Sol," with some intense percussion by Scott. This solid concert is easily recommended to fans of McCoy Tyner.