Let’s Listen! Introduction to Jazz Part 2 - Chick Corea

If you know about jazz, you're probably thinking “Another pianist again!” when I introduce my next selection. Just like pianist Bill Evans last time, I would like to introduce you to my favorite jazz pianist, Chick Corea, who has been a big influence on me.

Hello! It’s Nishida of the Products Group again. From cool sounds like Bill Evans to hot Latin rhythms, Chick Corea is a truly transformative pianist. His birth name is Armando Anthony Korea. He’s 78 years old, still active, and has his own YouTube channel.This time, I’ll introduce you to the famous songs from the musician who joined Emperor Miles Davis’ jazz band at a young age!YouTube Chick Corea

今回はジャズの帝王マイルス・デイヴィスのバンドに加入した青年期から往年の名曲までをご紹介！

1.Spain / Light as a Feather (1972)

A masterpiece from Return to Forever, which has become a synonym for Chick Corea. Quoting the second movement of Aranjuez Concerto in the intro, the up-tempo Latin rhythm is irresistible. Following that, there are various live performances, and you can listen to a variety of arrangements. One of my favorite songs is the "Duet" version (Wasn't this a collaboration with Gary Burton?) with Japanese jazz pianist Hiromi Uehara. There is also a well-known cover by jazz vocalist, Al Jarreau.

2.Armando’s Rhumba / My Spanish Heart (1976)

As the name suggests, the Rhumba from Armando (Chick Corea). This is also on the album, and the album has many Spanish songs throughout. The intro has a strong impact, but you can feel the Spanish nuance by clapping your hands and stepping to the rhythm. The violin solo is hot and uplifts me. In my opinion, Chick Corea, just standing there with no expression, is rather interesting.

3.Windows / Sweet Rain (1967)

A modal song from passionate Chick Corea. The breadth can be said to be like Chick Corea. The beginning is very calm, but you just know that you’ll be drawn into the passionate ad lib solo played by Stan Getz (tenor saxophonist). Later, he also performed in a trio on the album Now He Sings, Now He Sobs (1968). This includes the exquisite Roy Haynes (jazz drummer).

4.Return to Forever / Return to Forever (1972)

When I think of Chick Corea, I think of Return to Forever. This is the name of Chick Corea's solo album, but this album is the first fusion album that is synonymous with Chick Corea. A 12-minute masterpiece that will allow you to fully immerse yourself in an atmosphere that has a feeling of sorrow and coolness that reminds you of the jacket photo. The band, Return to Forever’s first phase has a fusion sound that is influenced by Latin, and after the second phase, they’re more inclined to rock.

5.My Spanish Heart / Antidote (2019)

The first project from Spanish Heart Band, a new Chick Corea project that was suddenly started in 2019. Yes, that Spanish Heart, recorded in 1976 and is about to turn 45! This time, I'm introducing My Spanish Heart, which is not only the title of a song but also the band name. Since it is a big deal, I will also post the original version of My Spanish Heart!

My Spanish Heart / My Spanish Heart (1976)

The My Spanish Heart version, which is the 4th song, feels as if it was created as an interlude. The connection of Night Streets across My Danish Heart from Day Danse is also a must-listen. On the other hand, the Antidote version is overwhelming with the sound that it is still active. Of course you can also feel the delicate sound nuances of Chick Corea. The song has been brushed up for a more modern sound, and it is a masterpiece.

I hope you listen to the jazz that I’ve introduced while you study and work at home during this period of sheltering. But of course you’ll want headphones that won't hurt your ears and speakers sound good no matter where you place them, right? That's why I'm introducing below this time.

JBL / JBL Charge5 Black

AKG / K701

I’m sure you’ve heard about JBL and AKG Bluetooth speakers and open headphones! The JBL Charge5 is waterproof, and can be used not only during studying and working, but also while bathing, which heals the exhaustion of the day, and the Charge4 will transform even bath-time into a fashionable time. Open headphones such as the K701 emit sound to the outside, and I think that some people have difficulty using these when there are other people around. But now that you have more time at home, you can enjoy these without worrying about others! And open type headphones place less of a burden on your ears than closed type headphones, and the point is that they do not become uncomfortable even when worn for long periods of time. Please consider these as well.

So, I’ve sent you some stylish jazz music, but I’ll be featuring songs that are perfect for the hot summer next time. So stay tuned!

See you!