Sunday, February 15, 2026

Side-Eye NYC (V1.IV) (2021), by Pat Metheny

Venerable jazz guitarist Pat Metheny tests out his Side-Eye concept – in which he spotlights younger up-and-coming musicians – in a live setting, covering some familiar classics as well as newer repertoire and creating something both structured and in the moment.

The newer kids on the block here are James Francies on keyboards and synthesizers and Marcus Gilmore on drums and percussion. They keep their leader on his toes while he pushes them to rise to the occasion, resulting in a range of sounds that run the gamut from vintage jazz to progressive, state-of-the-art fusion.

 

Regardless of whether he’s playing with seasoned peers or fresh faces, Metheny always manages to hone in on his artistry and vision with precise focus, defined by his signature sound and his nimble and sublime leads.

 

A rare excursion into blues rock guitar and the much-welcome return of his blazing guitar synthesizer make this session an eclectic and worthy addition to Pat Metheny’s decades-long discography.

 

--Raj Manoharan

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