If I see a CD on the ECM label in the used bin, I'll pick it up without question, such is my respect for the label and its artists. So I didn't hesitate to plop down $4.99 for this Pat Metheny album.
Metheny was 23 years old when this was recorded and it sounds like he's still trying to find his sound (spoiler alert: he found it a year later with the excellent 1978 self-titled release, Pat Metheny Group). It was Metheny's first record with keyboardist Lyle Mays, and Mays steals the show on several tracks with his fluid solos. For the most part, the melodies just aren't here - the goal of the writing is simply to supply chords over which to solo, creating soundscapes more so than hummable tunes. Metheny himself is quoted as saying the Watercolors "didn't turn out to be such a great record, because I really didn't think that album through." But so what if it's a bit uneven, it's still dang good. Enjoyable and relaxing.
Album chart peaks:
- US Billboard Top 200: Did not chart
- Billboard Jazz: #28
- CashBox Jazz: #20
Tracks: My top picks are the title track, Lakes, Sea Song, and the most accessible track, River Quay. The second track, Icefire, is a solo country/new age blend which is pretty, I just don't like the synth sound Metheny chose for his 12-string. Nonetheless, you play this one from the top and don't skip.
Personal Memory Associated with this CD: Me and my buds listened to a lot of Metheny in college and while I don't specifically remember spinning this album during that time, it is more than likely we did.
Previously revisited for the blog:
Selected Recordings :rarum IX (2004)
Steve Reich - Different Trains, Electric Counterpoint (1989)
The Falcon And The Snowman Original Motion Picture Soundtrack (1985)
First Circle (1984)
Travels (1983)
Offramp (1982)
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