AMINA CLAUDINE MYERS

SOLACE OF THE MIND

Red Hook Records

Amina Claudine Myers, piano/Hammond B3 Organ/vocals.

Amina Claudine Myers has southern Little Rock, Arkansas roots. Years ago, she transplanted to Chicago, Illinois. Recently, she was celebrated as a NEA Jazz Master Pianist awardee. The first recording I heard by Ms. Myers was a spectacular duet with Wadada Leo Smith.  However, Amina Claudine Myers is no newcomer to the jazz world. Back in her Chicago Organ-trio-days, accompanied by drummer Ajaramu Shelton, they became the back-up band for saxophonists, Sonny Stitt, Eddie Harris, and Gene Ammons.

Of course, in Chicago Ms. Myers found herself in those community jazz circles that included Roscoe Mitchell, Joseph Jarman, Lester Bowie and Malachi Favors of the formidable Art Ensemble of Chicago.  She also rubbed shoulders and musical spirits with other legendary musicians, while participating in the first generation of the Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians (AACM).  Those folks included Anthony Braxton, Henry Threadgill, Kalaparusha Maurice McIntyre, Steve McCall and Leo Smith.

“I found my home in the AACM.  Everyone was encouraged to make our own music, do our own thing.  I began to hear more.  I wanted to try different ideas,” Myers recalled in her liner notes.

As soon as I heard Ms. Myers’ music, I was reminded of church and the elders of my family sitting at the upright piano and playing. Back in those days, you found in almost everyone’s home, a piano, and someone playing a spiritually based hymnal or some popular blues tune, with a walking boogie-woogie bass line.

Myers’ music is full of gospel spirit, starting with the very first tune called “African Blues.”  It’s her original composition, as are all the songs on this recording.  The second track is called “Song for Mother E.” It has a richly arpeggio right hand that flutters bird-like in the treble clef.  Her left hand is busy too, with tremolo chords that support and move in coordination with its counterpart.  There is a feeling of meditation in her music, a spirit of peace.  She originally recorded this “Song for Mother E” on her album released in 1979. This rendition is reimagined.

Throughout Amina Claudine’s album, you will be spoon-fed a taste of tradition, gospel roots, modernity, all boiled down with spicy Avant-garde music.  For example, on a song called “Sensuous” she simmers and explores the piano notes to illuminate her emotional feelings. Amina Claudine Myers has never lost sight of her unique musical approach. It is her own personal recipe. Taste it and see what you think.

Reviewed by Dee Dee McNeil

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