"Country Roads & Other Places" is a captivating jazz fusion album by the Gary Burton Quartet, marking the final release of the quartet under the RCA Victor label in 1969. This 34-minute journey through diverse musical landscapes showcases the quartet's mastery of jazz fusion, free jazz, and traditional jazz, making it a standout in Gary Burton's discography.
The album features a blend of original compositions and covers, including a rendition of "Country Roads" and a classical piece, "Ravel Prelude (Le Tombeau de Couperin: Prelude)." The tracklist also includes "The Green Mountains," "True or False," "Gone, but Forgotten," "And On the Third Day," "A Singing Song," "Wichita Breakdown," "My Foolish Heart," and "A Family Joy." Each track offers a unique perspective on the quartet's eclectic style, with Jerry Hahn's guitar work replacing Larry Coryell's on this release.
"Country Roads & Other Places" is a testament to the Gary Burton Quartet's versatility and innovation, making it a essential addition to any jazz enthusiast's collection. The album's eclectic mixture of jazz styles and Burton's signature vibraphone playing create a rich and engaging listening experience.