Side-Eye III+ by Pat Metheny

Review: Pat Metheny - Side-Eye III+

Pat Metheny, the only person to ever win Grammys in ten different categories, is back in his most ebullient and straightforward mode on Side-Eye III+, a collection of trio recordings of his original compositions. Many of Metheny's justly famous and relatable originals have contained a melody around which he improvises and that welcome tradition shines in "Make A New World." A simple quote, reminiscent of The Beatles' "Here, There and Everywhere," opens this initially slow-paced tune before the rhythms increase tempo. Metheny's love of digital delay and guitar synths kicks in and the tune glides off into a spacious fusion exploration.  Wordless vocals are added by a nine-person, mixed gender ensemble led by Mark Kibble of Take 6.  The sound of this complex mix of voices is exceptionally alive and defined.  

Although this is primarily a trio session with drummer Joe Dyson and keyboardist Chris Fishman, additional support comes from bassist Daryl Johns, harpist Brandee Younger, and percussionist Luis Conte.  "Urban and Western" begins with easygoing, bluesy melodic turns before Fishman's nimble organ steps in and the vocal ensemble enriches this tune with rousing gospel accents and to bring the mini symphony to a close. "Risk and Reward" mixes the sound of an acoustic piano with another Metheny sonic signature: a high, piercing, guitar synth line. In the finale, "So Far, So Good," Metheny delivers a sweeping, irresistible tour de force accenting his love and respect for the accesbility melody brings.  © Robert Baird/Qobuz