Chick Corea, one of jazz major pianists who turned 75 last June, was celebrating/celebrated in Paris Philharmonie with several concerts. I chose to attend the Chick Corea Trio featuring Avishai Cohen on double-bass and Marcus Gilmore on drums – the grandson of the legendary Roy Haynes (Haynes who played with Corea and Miroslav Vitouš in a fabulous Trio).
Corea is as brisk and smiling as ever (a certain Keith J. should learn from him on this point!), and clearly enjoys being there ; Cohen, who has regularly worked with Corea is always stunning to look at ; Gilmore is not outdone by his partners (Blood will tell!).
The Trio played Corea’s 500 Miles High, Bill Evans’ Alice in Wonderland a wonderful tribute to Master Bill, Anna’s Tango dedicated to Chick’s Mother with a very long bass intro, Bud Powell’s Tempus Fugue-it in honour of one of his other heroes, the standard It Could Happen to You, followed by 2 other brilliant pieces including a fabulous Spain.
Then, surprise, surprise, the Trio was joined by the great saxophonist Kenny Garrett – which I had seen with Miles Davis – for 2 splendid encores!
Thank you and Happy 75th Birthday Chick!
Partial Setlist:
500 Miles High
Alice in Wonderland
Anna’s Tango
Tempus Fugit
It Could Happen to You
Spain
Encores with Kenny Garrett joining