Time For Tyner

Dive into the world of jazz with McCoy Tyner's "Time For Tyner," a captivating album that showcases the pianist's mastery and innovative spirit. Released in August 1969 on the prestigious Blue Note Records, this album is Tyner's ninth studio effort and his third with the label, following the critically acclaimed "Expansions." Recorded in May 1968 at the legendary Van Gelder Studio in Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey, "Time For Tyner" is a testament to Tyner's unique voice in the jazz landscape.

The album features a stellar quartet, with McCoy Tyner at the helm, accompanied by the virtuosic vibraphonist Bobby Hutcherson, bassist Herbie Lewis, and drummer Freddie Waits. This horn-less session allows the interplay between Tyner's piano and Hutcherson's vibraphone to take center stage, resulting in a fast-paced and intricate musical dialogue.

"Time For Tyner" spans a variety of jazz genres, including hard bop, cool jazz, bebop, and free jazz, demonstrating Tyner's versatility and boundary-pushing approach. The album opens with the reimagined "African Village," followed by the lively "Little Madimba," and the cool and collected "May Street." Tyner also pays homage to the Great American Songbook with his interpretations of "I Didn't Know What Time It Was," "The Surrey With The Fringe On Top," and "I've Grown Accustomed To Her Face."

With a runtime of 42 minutes, "Time For Tyner" is a concise yet powerful exploration of McCoy Tyner's artistry. The album's remastered 2003 Rudy Van Gelder Edition ensures that the original recording's warmth and clarity are preserved, allowing new and veteran fans alike to appreciate the timeless quality of Tyner's music. Whether you're a longtime admirer of McCoy Tyner or a curious jazz enthusiast, "Time For Tyner" is an essential addition to your collection, offering a unique perspective on the pianist's evolution and his enduring impact on the jazz genre.