Description
Ralph Towner – Works – Cassette
Works is a compilation album by American guitarist and composer Ralph Towner. Released in 1999, it features a collection of tracks from Towner’s solo albums and collaborations with other musicians, spanning his career up to that point. As a highly accomplished musician and a key figure in the world of jazz and contemporary acoustic music, Towner’s compositions and performances are known for their intricate beauty and innovative spirit.
One of the founders of Oregon, Ralph Towner is one of the few modern jazz musicians to specialize on acoustic guitar. His playing often stretches beyond the boundaries of conventional jazz into world music and is quite distinctive. He started playing piano when he was three and trumpet at five, performing in a dance band when he was 13. Towner studied classical guitar in Vienna and played with classical chamber groups in the mid-’60s.
The album Works showcases Towner’s diverse musical abilities and his mastery of the guitar. His playing style combines elements of jazz, classical, and world music, creating a unique and captivating sonic landscape. The tracks on the album range from solo guitar pieces to ensemble compositions, highlighting Towner’s versatility and his ability to adapt his musical vision to different settings.
Towner’s compositions are characterized by their melodic richness, harmonic complexity, and rhythmic intricacy. He employs fingerpicking techniques, intricate chord voicings, and imaginative use of harmonics to create captivating and evocative soundscapes. Towner’s compositions often blend introspective and contemplative moods with moments of vibrant energy and improvisation, showcasing his ability to tell stories and evoke emotions through his music.
Throughout his career, Towner has collaborated with renowned musicians from various genres, including jazz pianist Keith Jarrett, trumpeter Jan Garbarek, and the group Oregon. These collaborations have influenced and shaped Towner’s musical style, adding layers of depth and exploration to his compositions.
After moving to New York in 1969, Towner worked with Jimmy Garrison, Jeremy Steig, and Paul Winter’s Winter Consort (1970-1971). In the latter group, Towner first met up with Collin Walcott, Glen Moore, and Paul McCandless, and in 1971 they broke away to form Oregon, a highly versatile group that ranges from jazz and free improvisations to folk music.
Towner (who guested with Weather Report in 1971 and played with Gary Burton a bit during 1974-1975) has performed and recorded with Oregon extensively since its formation, in addition to recording as a leader and with many other artists on the ECM label.
“Works” serves as a comprehensive introduction to the musical world of Ralph Towner, offering a glimpse into his vast body of work and his innovative approach to the guitar. It is a testament to his creative genius and his lasting impact on the world of contemporary acoustic music.
BMG Records
Brand new, never played and still in the factory plastic but promo hole in spine
Track Listing
1. Oceanus
2. Blue Sun
3. New Moon
4. Beneath An Evening Sky
5. Prince And The Sage, The
6. Nimbus
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