REVIEW: Julian Coryell, Bitter To Sweet (Mojo)
- Andrew Duncan
This may seem like yet another tale of a rising star born into the music business, but Julian Coryell's talent goes beyond his association of his father, Larry Coryell, being a great jazz musician.
At the age of 14, Julian became an addition to his father's band, playing what he calls "lower-profile gigs." For the world traveler, those gigs were his boot camp gaining him the experience he needed for the real world.
Of course a degree from the Berkelee College of Music probably helped out as well.
As much as Julian enjoyed jazz and wanted to be like his father, he really had his eye on The Beatles and '60s pop. After playing many gigs in New York and piddling around in the studio, he was convinced to record in Los Angeles with producer Niko Bolas, who has worked with everyone from Stan Getz to Neil Young.
What results is his debut release Bitter To Sweet, a technical album that deals with diversity, more than the concept of a crisp, pop album.
From the beginning, the Beatles influence is immediately identified, but who hasn't been influenced by the Beatles? But then again, the album hints at anything from orchestral arrangements to '70s rock to alternative rock.
Julian's ability to tell a story through verse is exceptional, with songs about hope ("Overcome") and despair ("Let Me Fall"). His voice often conjures up the image of a mature Andy Partridge, which is especially evident on the title track. The music is more than complimenting, through accenting the right moments and creating a thick backdrop rich in texture and emotion. Whether it's an acoustic strum or a sweep of a violin bow, every tone is carefully planned out.
For those seeking a quick listen, look elsewhere. There's a lot going on in Coryell's world and, time permitting, he will tell his story the way he knows how - through beautiful musical imagery.
