On Moondial, Metheny demonstrates his love for an instrument he has been dabbling with in recent solo performances. The guitar in question is the purpose-built baritone nylon-string Linda Manzer guitar; for those who need to know, this is used in conjunction with an AEA R88 ribbon mic and a Go Acoustic Audio pickup.
This departure brings more of the warmth for which he has always been noted and enhances the melodic quality of his music.
The balance of tunes is noteworthy here, for the six originals sit comfortably alongside such familiar themes as Lennon and McCartney’s Here, There And Everywhere and the old warhorse Angel Eyes. Metheny’s ability to bring new life to Londonderry Air and the Everything Happens To Me/Somewhere combination are singularly to be applauded.
If he made his name in electric-driven circles, his ability in this kind of setting is equally satisfying, replacing the exciting option for a more subtle approach. His phrasing and note placement are impeccable, driven by an underlying command of his chosen guitar.
He tells us there are certain things he can play on the baritone that are impossible on his regular acoustic and those conversant with guitar technique are probably the best placed to appreciate this fact. This latest project will do nothing to diminish his popularity.
Discography
Moondial; La Crosse; You’re Everything; Here, There And Everywhere; We Can’t See It, But It’s There; Falcon Love; Everything Happens To Me/Somewhere; Londonderry Air; This Belongs To You; Shoga; My Love And I; Angel Eyes; Moondial (Epilogue) (61.24)
Pat Metheny (baritone g). December 2023.
BMG Records
