What's New?

"What's New?" is a captivating live album by the legendary jazz pianist McCoy Tyner, recorded at the Musicians Exchange Cafe in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on July 24 & 25, 1987. This album is a testament to Tyner's mastery of the piano and his ability to blend various jazz styles, including hard bop, cool jazz, bebop, and even free jazz, into a cohesive and engaging musical experience.

The album features six tracks, each showcasing Tyner's virtuosic piano playing alongside the stellar rhythm section of Avery Sharpe on bass and Louis Hayes on drums. The setlist includes Tyner's original compositions like "Senor Carlos" and "You Taught My Heart to Sing," as well as jazz standards such as "Loverman" and "What's New." The album opens with the lively "Senor Carlos," setting the tone for an evening of dynamic and expressive performances.

"Loverman" offers a slower, more introspective moment, highlighting Tyner's ability to convey depth and nuance. "You Taught My Heart to Sing" is a beautiful, melodic piece that showcases Tyner's compositional skills, while "Port au Blues" and "Island Birdie" add a touch of Caribbean flavor to the album. The set concludes with a rousing rendition of "What's New," a classic jazz standard that Tyner makes his own.

Originally released in 1987 on the West Wind label, "What's New?" was reissued in 2021, making it accessible to a new generation of jazz enthusiasts. The album's live setting captures the energy and spontaneity of a live performance, providing an intimate look into Tyner's artistic process. With a running time of just over 50 minutes, "What's New?" is a concise yet powerful addition to any jazz collection, showcasing McCoy Tyner at the height of his powers.