Embarking on a musical journey through the illustrious career of jazz legend Chick Corea is like navigating a world of sonic brilliance and innovation. A adept pianist, composer, and bandleader, Corea left an indelible mark on the world of jazz, pushing boundaries and reshaping the genre with his unique fusion of styles.
So, whether you’re a seasoned jazz aficionado or a newcomer eager to discover the magic of Chick Corea, fasten your seatbelt as we delve into five essential albums (not in any specific order) that stand as testaments to Chick’s enduring legacy in the world of music.
1. Return To Forever
“Return to Forever” was the debut studio release by Chick Corea’s jazz fusion group with the same name. Released in 1972, this album marked the beginning of Chick Corea’s exploration into the fusion genre, blending jazz improvisation with elements of rock, Latin music, and electric instrumentation. The lineup for this album featured Chick Corea on keyboards, Joe Farrell on saxophones and flute, Stanley Clarke on bass, Airto Moreira on drums and percussion, and Flora Purim on vocals.
The music on “Return to Forever” is characterized by its dynamic interplay, intricate compositions, and a fusion of various musical influences. Chick Corea’s keyboard work, including his use of electric piano and synthesizers, became a defining element of the group’s sound. The album also showcased the impressive talents of each member, from Stanley Clarke’s virtuosic bass lines to Joe Farrell’s expressive saxophone solos.
Notable tracks on the album include the opening track “Return to Forever,” a composition that sets the tone for the group’s exploratory approach, and “Crystal Silence,” a serene and introspective piece that contrasts with the more energetic and complex compositions on the record.
“Return to Forever” received critical acclaim and established Chick Corea as a leading figure in the fusion movement. The success of this album laid the foundation for the group’s subsequent work and solidified its place in the history of jazz fusion.
2. Chick Corea Elektric Band II: Paint The World
Released in 1993, Paint the World is the sixth studio album by the Chick Corea Elektric Band. It marked a new chapter for the band, featuring a completely revamped lineup compared to its predecessor, “Beneath The Mask”.
Corea assembled a group of virtuosic musicians for this album, including Eric Marienthal on saxophone, Mike Miller on guitar, Jimmy Earl on bass, and Gary Novak on drums. This new lineup brought a fresh energy and sound to the band, while still retaining the Elektric Band’s signature blend of jazz, fusion, and rock.
Paint the World is a diverse and adventurous album, showcasing Corea’s compositional prowess and the band’s tight musicianship. The album opens with the title track, a funky fusion piece that sets the tone for the rest of the album. Other highlights include “Blue Miles,” a swinging blues shuffle, “Tone Poem,” and “Spanish Sketch,” a fun Latin-flavored number.
Paint the World is considered by many to be one of the Chick Corea Elektric Band’s best albums, and it continues to be enjoyed by fans of jazz, fusion, and instrumental music alike. The album is a testament to Corea’s vision and talent, and stood as a high point in his long and distinguished career.
3. Crystal Silence
Released in 1972, it marked the debut collaboration between Corea and vibraphonist Gary Burton, and the beginning of a musical partnership that would last for decades.
Recorded in Oslo, Norway, “Crystal Silence” features nine compositions, five by Corea, three by bassist Steve Swallow and one by Mike Gibbs. The music itself is a beautiful blend of lyricism and improvisation, characterized by a delicate interplay between Corea’s piano and Burton’s shimmering vibraphone.
The album’s title track, “Crystal Silence,” is a particularly evocative piece, its shimmering melodies and introspective mood perfectly capturing the album’s overall atmosphere.
Crystal Silence was met with widespread critical acclaim upon its release, and continues to be praised to this day for its beauty, originality, and technical prowess.
4. Now He Sings, Now He Sobs
Also featured in our “Jazz Basics: 5 Albums Beginners Need To Know About” post , Chick Corea’s “Now He Sings, Now He Sobs” stands as a timeless gem that introduces listeners to the intricate beauty of jazz. Released in 1968, this album marked a pivotal moment in Corea’s career and continues to captivate audiences with its innovative approach to improvisation and exceptional musicianship.
This album is a testament to Corea’s unparalleled artistry, showcasing his prowess as both a pianist and a composer. “Now He Sings, Now He Sobs” is a celebration of spontaneity, exploration, and the sheer joy of musical expression. With its inventive compositions and masterful performances, the album invites anyone to delve into the heart of jazz, where improvisation reigns supreme.
5. Friends
Chick Corea’s album “Friends” is a jazz album released in 1978. The album showcases Corea’s versatility as a musician and composer, offering a fusion of various styles and influences. “Friends” was released under the ECM (Edition of Contemporary Music) label, known for its commitment to avant-garde and innovative jazz recordings.
The lineup for “Friends” features Chick Corea on piano and synthesizers, along with an impressive ensemble of musicians, including Joe Farrell on flute and soprano saxophone, Eddie Gomez on bass and Steve Gadd on drums.
The music on “Friends” is characterized by its melodic richness, intricate compositions, and a balance between structured compositions and improvisational sections. Chick Corea’s piano work, as well as his use of synthesizers, plays a central role in shaping the album’s sound.
Notable tracks on the album include the title track “Friends,” a vibrant and dynamic composition that captures the collaborative spirit of the ensemble. Another standout track is “The One Step,” which features intricate interplay between the musicians and showcases Corea’s knack for creating engaging and sophisticated musical conversations.
“Friends” received critical acclaim for its innovation and musical depth, contributing to Chick Corea’s reputation as a leading figure in the jazz world. The album is often celebrated for its ability to blend accessibility with complexity, making it a compelling listen for both seasoned jazz enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Conclusion
From the groundbreaking fusion of “Return to Forever” to the collaborative genius of “Friends,” each album we’ve delved into unveils a different facet of Chick Corea’s multifaceted artistry. The rhythmic complexity, harmonic innovation, and virtuosic performances embedded in these albums underscore the profound impact Corea has had on the world of jazz.
As we bid adieu to this exploration, let the melodies linger, the harmonies resonate, and the rhythms echo, reminding us that the spirit of innovation and artistic expression lives on in the timeless allure of Chick Corea’s music.
