Bass legend Marcus Miller is renowned for his groundbreaking work with artists such as Miles Davis, Luther Vandross, Herbie Hancock, and David Sanborn. Miller helped redefine the electric bass with his distinctive slap technique, compositional depth, and genre-crossing sound. In this interview, Miller discusses adapting to the rise of drum machines and synthesizers in the studio, finding his voice on electric bass rather than upright bass, and drawing inspiration from both the jazz and funk traditions. Miller shares stories from his time with Miles Davis, including the creation of the iconic Tutu album, and offers powerful advice to young musicians about the importance of individuality over imitation. As he prepares to release new music with his current touring band, Miller remains a vital and forward-thinking artist.

(76) “Crystal Silence” and the album Chick Corea & Gary Burton- Crystal Silence

Standard Rating 4 and Difficulty Rating 7

Crystal Silence, the iconic 1973 duet album by Chick Corea and Gary Burton, introduced a new sonic language in jazz—intimate, spacious, and emotionally nuanced. Defined by its minimalist textures and chamber-like interplay, the album helped shape the signature ECM sound: pristine, contemplative, and harmonically rich. At its heart lies the title track, “Crystal Silence,” a 41-bar ballad that exemplifies Corea’s lyrical sophistication and harmonic invention. With its slow tempo, subtle rubato, and haunting chord voicings, the piece unfolds in floating, asymmetric phrases. Burton’s shimmering vibraphone and Corea’s resonant piano lines intertwine with extraordinary sensitivity, creating a meditative soundscape. The tune’s form, full of surprising harmonic turns and suspended resolutions, invites deep introspection. Together, the song and album represent a landmark in modern jazz, expanding the expressive potential of the duet format and highlighting the deep artistic connection between two masters at the peak of their creative powers.

Corea and Burton

Grisman and Taylor

Full Album: Crystal Silence

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Pasquale Grasso, an Italian-born jazz guitarist, is celebrated for his virtuosic technique and deep bebop roots. Grasso has captivated jazz audiences worldwide by blending intricate harmonies with a clean, classic tone. Legendary guitarist Pat Metheny praised him in Vintage Guitar magazine, stating, “The best guitar player I’ve heard in my entire life is floating around now, Pasquale Grasso.” This acclaim reflects Grasso’s artistry, showcased on his trio album Fervency (Sony Music Masterworks), which features bassist Ari Roland and drummer Keith Balla. A protégé of Barry Harris, Grasso developed perfect pitch and began playing by ear at a young age. George Benson, Charlie Christian, and Bud Powell influenced him, and he refined his craft in Italy before relocating to New York at the age of 19. In addition to solo work, he collaborates with Grammy-winning vocalist Samara Joy. Named DownBeat’s 2024 Rising Star Guitarist of the Year, Grasso continues to shape modern jazz with reverence for its traditions.