Finds guitarist leading a retooled; in addition to longtime core members, keyboardist and bassist, the now includes drummer, trumpeter/vocalist, and, who's best known as a bassist, but who functions primarily as the 's percussionist/vocalist. The result is an exquisite album that features fresh new musical perspectives while losing none of the 's familiar wide-ranging, melodic, always accessible sound.
Most of the tracks on were composed by and his longtime collaborator, although three tracks were composed solely. There's a buoyant feel to this album that is not to be confused with lightness. This is complex, intricately detailed music that reveals additional layers with each listening. Seems to delight in discovering the myriad means by which his prodigiously accomplished bandmembers can provide coloration to the compositions, both within the larger group and in solo spotlights. 's rhythmic agility and sensitivity is featured throughout, particularly on 'The Gathering Sky,' which begins as a sparkling, piano-led number and then transforms into a grooving band jam. One of the album's many solo highlights comes during 'Proof,' where turns in a poignantly lyrical trumpet solo that is followed by an electrifying, steadily intensifying solo.
Vocals have long been part of the sound, but now he is utilizing them in new ways; 'Another Life' opens with and harmonizing on a chorale that leads into the artist's delicate acoustic guitar work, while provides sweet vocalizing over 's guitar on the beautiful, soaring 'You.' Every track on possesses a distinct beauty and eloquence. This is a superb offering that is not to be missed.
Pat Metheny The Gathering Sky (2006) 01 Proof 02 Are you Going With Me 03 As it Is 04 How Insensitive 05 The Gathering Sky 06 A Place In the World 07 In Her Family 08 Bright Size Life 09 The Roots Of Coincidence 10 On Her Way Lineup: Pat Metheny, guitars, guitar synthesizer Lyle Mays, piano.