OREGON - BEST OF THE VANGUARD YEAR

Author: OREGON

Format: Best of

Release Date: 21-03-2000

Details: Amazon.ca This 14-track collection represents the definitive 1970s recordings by the group Oregon, which mixed aspects of jazz improvisation, classical composition, and Indian raga into one of the more innovative approaches to the so-called fusion era. Anchored by Ralph Towner's introspective acoustic guitar and piano melodies (think post-Woodstock Bill Evans), the Oregon sound incorporated Paul McCandless's airy woodwinds, Glen Moore's singing bass, and Collin Walcott's world-beat percussion. What has distinguished Oregon's original concept from the subsequent New Age knockoffs is the musicians' undeniable jazz chops and collective refusal to pander to slick sentimentality and faux spiritualism. To recall Oregon at its elemental best, check out "Aurora," from the 1974 Distant Hills album. But it's also interesting to hear what the group can do when pushed by a guest soloist: "Improvisation on Robert de Visee's Menuet II" (with Larry Coryell), "Gospel Song" (with Bennie Wallace), and "Charango" (with Elvin Jones). --Rick Mitchell

UPC: 015707956024

EAN: 0015707956024

Languages: English

Binding: audioCD

Item Condition: UsedVeryGood