Still Life (Talking) is the fifth studio album by the Pat Metheny Group , released on July 7, 1987 . It marked the group's debut on Geffen Records
and is widely considered a cornerstone of jazz fusion, notably as the first installment in their "Brazilian Trilogy". Core Album Data Release Date: July 7, 1987. Recording: March–April 1987 at Power Station, NYC. Personnel: Pat Metheny: Acoustic & electric guitars, guitar synth. Lyle Mays: Piano, keyboards. Steve Rodby: Acoustic & electric bass. Paul Wertico: Armando Marçal: Percussion, backing vocals. David Blamires & Mark Ledford: Tracklist & Style
The album blends jazz fusion with modern Brazilian harmonies and rhythms, often featuring wordless vocal melodies. New York Jazz Workshop
Pat Metheny Group - Still Life (Talking) reviews - Prog Archives
Jazz Rock/Fusion * Studio Album, released in 1987. * Songs / Tracks Listing. Minuano (Six Eight) (9:27) So May It Secretly Begin ( Progarchives.com
Pat Metheny - 1987 "Still Life (Talking)" - Jazz Rock Fusion Guitar
Released on July 7, 1987, Still Life (Talking) is a seminal album by the Pat Metheny Group that solidified their transition into a lush, Brazilian-influenced sound. It is the first album the group released on Geffen Records following a decade-long relationship with ECM. Overview and Musical Style
Considered the centerpiece of the group’s "Brazilian Trilogy"—which also includes First Circle (1984) and Letter from Home (1989)—the album blends complex jazz fusion with folk, pop, and South American harmonies. The production is noted for its polished, atmospheric sound, often using wordless vocals to create a "choir-like" texture. Key Tracks
Released on July 7, 1987, Still Life (Talking) is the fifth studio album by the Pat Metheny Group and their first release on Geffen Records. It is a cornerstone of the group's "Brazilian Trilogy," characterized by a blend of jazz fusion, folk, pop, and Brazilian-influenced harmonies. Key Album Facts
Accolades: Won the Grammy Award for Best Jazz Fusion Performance and was certified gold by the RIAA in 1992.
Production: Digitally recorded, mixed, and mastered at Power Station, NYC.
Personnel: Features the core duo of Pat Metheny and Lyle Mays, supported by Steve Rodby (bass), Paul Wertico (drums), and guest vocalists like Mark Ledford and David Blamires. Track Listing
Pat Metheny Group - Still Life (Talking) RAR: A Legendary Jazz Album
Released in 1987, Still Life (Talking) is the eighth studio album by the Pat Metheny Group, a renowned American jazz fusion band led by guitarist Pat Metheny. This album marked a significant milestone in the group's career, showcasing their unique blend of jazz, rock, and world music elements.
About the Album
Still Life (Talking) features a distinctive sound, characterized by Metheny's soaring guitar work, Lyle Mays' intricate keyboard textures, and the rhythm section's dynamic interplay. The album includes seven tracks, each with its own distinct personality:
Musical Significance
Still Life (Talking) is widely regarded as one of the Pat Metheny Group's most important and influential albums. The album's eclectic blend of styles and genres helped to define the sound of contemporary jazz in the late 1980s. Metheny's guitar playing, in particular, is notable for its expressiveness and technical mastery.
RAR (Rare or Unreleased) Tracks
The Still Life (Talking) RAR release includes several bonus tracks, which are highly sought after by collectors and fans:
These rare tracks offer a fascinating glimpse into the band's creative process and provide a unique perspective on the album's development.
Conclusion
Still Life (Talking) is a landmark album in the Pat Metheny Group's discography, showcasing the band's innovative approach to jazz and their ability to craft memorable, engaging music. The RAR release offers a valuable addition to the album, with rare and unreleased tracks that provide a deeper understanding of the band's creative process. Whether you're a longtime fan or just discovering the Pat Metheny Group, Still Life (Talking) remains an essential listen for anyone interested in jazz, fusion, or guitar music.
Released in 1987, Still Life (Talking) is widely considered one of the Pat Metheny Group's
most definitive works. It marked the group's debut on Geffen Records and won the Grammy for Best Jazz Fusion Performance Musical Style and Themes
The album is the second installment of what fans call the "Brazilian Trilogy," blending jazz fusion with world music, folk, and pop elements. Brazilian Influence:
The record heavily features Brazilian-influenced harmonies and wordless, chant-like vocals that act as additional instrumentation. Technological Sophistication: It highlights Pat Metheny’s extensive use of the Synclavier
and guitar synthesizers, alongside Lyle Mays’ signature keyboard textures. New York Jazz Workshop Key Tracks
Pat Metheny Group - Still Life (Talking) reviews - Prog Archives
Released in 1987, Still Life (Talking) is a cornerstone of the Pat Metheny Group discography and the first installment of their acclaimed "Brazilian Trilogy". It marked a major transition for the group, being their debut on Geffen Records after leaving ECM, and went on to win the Grammy for Best Jazz Fusion Performance. Essential Album Facts Release Date: 1987.
Label: Originally released by Geffen Records; later reissued by Nonesuch Records in 2006 with remastered sound.
Genre: Jazz fusion and crossover jazz with heavy Brazilian influences.
Personnel: Pat Metheny (guitars), Lyle Mays (piano, keyboards), Steve Rodby (bass), Paul Wertico (drums), and Armando Marçal (percussion, vocals). Track Listing & Analysis
Pat Metheny Still Life Album Review - New York Jazz Workshop
Released in 1987 on Geffen Records, Still Life (Talking) is the fifth studio album by the Pat Metheny Group. It represents a pivotal moment for the ensemble, marking their departure from the ECM label and the solidification of a "symphonic" jazz fusion sound characterized by Brazilian rhythms and wordless vocals. The album achieved significant commercial and critical success, winning the Grammy Award for Best Jazz Fusion Performance and being certified gold by the RIAA. Musical Direction and Compositional Philosophy
The album is defined by a dense, layered production that utilizes the recording studio as an additional instrument. Principal collaborators Pat Metheny and pianist Lyle Mays expanded the Group's palette through:
Brazilian Influence: Building on the sounds of their previous album, First Circle, the group integrated Brazilian accents more deeply through the addition of percussionist Armando Marçal.
Wordless Vocals: The inclusion of singers David Blamires and Mark Ledford provided a melodic texture that reviewers from Amazon described as "poetry without words". Pat Metheny Group Still Life Talking Rar
Technological Integration: Metheny heavily utilized the Synclavier for sequencing and the Roland GR-300 guitar synthesizer to achieve horn-like lead lines, while Mays employed Oberheim and Prophet V synthesizers for "seasoned electronic orchestrations". Track Analysis
"Minuano (Six Eight)": The opening track features a complex 6/8 meter and evolved from a 16-bar whistled tune by Metheny into a nine-minute "masterpiece" through Mays' orchestration.
"So May It Secretly Begin": A track noted for its lyrical quality and continued exploration of the Brazilian aesthetic.
"Last Train Home": Perhaps the album's most famous piece, it utilizes an electric sitar and a persistent rhythmic "chugging" to evoke the sound of a train. It has gained widespread recognition as a theme for the JoJo's Bizarre Adventure anime.
"(It's Just) Talk": A rhythmic groover that showcases the wordless vocals of Ledford and Blamires over an ebullient cuica-driven backdrop.
"Third Wind": An energetic, symphonic composition involving intricate arranging techniques and a notable guitar synth solo that reaches the range of an alto saxophone.
"Distance" and "In Her Family": Shorter, contemplative pieces primarily composed by Mays that provide a thematic contrast to the more kinetic earlier tracks. Legacy Classic Album: Pat Metheny, Still Life (Talking)
The Pat Metheny Group's "Still Life (Talking)": A Masterful Exploration of Jazz and Beyond
Released in 1987, "Still Life (Talking)" is the eighth studio album by the Pat Metheny Group, and it marks a significant turning point in the band's evolution. This album showcases the group's unique blend of jazz, rock, and world music influences, resulting in a richly textured and deeply satisfying listening experience.
Musical Exploration and Experimentation
From the opening notes of the album's first track, "Are You Going with Me?", it's clear that the Pat Metheny Group is on a mission to push the boundaries of jazz and explore new sonic landscapes. The song features a hypnotic guitar riff, courtesy of Metheny, which sets the tone for the rest of the album. The track also showcases the impressive technical skills of the band's members, including Metheny's virtuosic guitar playing, Lyle Mays's intricate keyboard work, and the tight, rhythmic interplay between bassist Mark Egan and drummer Dan Gottlieb.
Throughout the album, the Pat Metheny Group demonstrates a willingness to experiment and take risks, incorporating a wide range of musical influences and styles into their sound. For example, the track "Three Folk Songs" features a haunting, modal melody that recalls traditional folk music, while "The Longest Summer" is a sprawling, atmospheric piece that incorporates elements of ambient music and soundscapes.
Lyrical Themes and Storytelling
One of the standout features of "Still Life (Talking)" is the album's strong focus on lyrics and storytelling. Metheny's songs are often narrative-driven, with vivid characters and settings that evoke a sense of place and atmosphere. The title track, "Still Life (Talking)", is a prime example, featuring a poignant and introspective lyric that explores themes of love, loss, and memory.
Other tracks, such as "Bright Size Life" and "The Longest Summer", also feature lyrics that are both personal and universal, touching on themes of relationships, identity, and the search for meaning. Metheny's lyrics are often described as enigmatic and open-ended, inviting listeners to fill in the gaps and interpret the songs in their own way.
Legacy and Impact
"Still Life (Talking)" was widely praised upon its release, with many critics noting the album's innovative blend of jazz, rock, and world music influences. The album has also had a lasting impact on the jazz and music communities, influencing a wide range of musicians and inspiring new generations of listeners.
In 2011, the album was re-released as part of a deluxe edition package, featuring remastered audio and a live recording from the band's 1987 tour. This re-release helped to introduce the album to a new audience, and cemented its status as a classic of contemporary jazz.
Conclusion
"Still Life (Talking)" is a masterful album that showcases the Pat Metheny Group's unique blend of jazz, rock, and world music influences. With its strong focus on lyrics and storytelling, innovative musical exploration, and technical virtuosity, the album remains a must-listen for fans of jazz and beyond. As a testament to the band's creative vision and skill, "Still Life (Talking)" continues to inspire and influence musicians to this day.
The Pat Metheny Group's "Still Life (Talking)": A Timeless Jazz Masterpiece
The Pat Metheny Group's album "Still Life (Talking)" is a highly acclaimed jazz record that has stood the test of time. Released in 1987, this album marked a significant milestone in the group's discography, showcasing their unique blend of jazz, rock, and folk influences. In this article, we'll explore the making of "Still Life (Talking)", its significance in the Pat Metheny Group's career, and why it remains a beloved classic among jazz enthusiasts.
Background and Recording
The Pat Metheny Group, formed in 1977, was known for their eclectic and innovative approach to jazz. The group consisted of Pat Metheny (guitar, vocals), Mark Egan (bass), Dan Gottlieb (drums), and Lyle Mays (keyboards, synthesizers). In 1986, the group began working on their fifth studio album, "Still Life (Talking)", which would be recorded at various studios in New York City.
The recording process was quite extensive, with the group members contributing a wide range of musical ideas and influences. According to Pat Metheny, the album was shaped by the band's experiences on the road, as well as their individual musical interests and explorations. The result was an album that seamlessly blended different styles, from intricate instrumental passages to melodic vocal tracks.
Musical Themes and Highlights
"Still Life (Talking)" features nine tracks, each showcasing the group's exceptional musicianship and compositional skills. The album's title track, "Still Life (Talking)", sets the tone for the record, with a gentle, lilting melody and poetic lyrics that explore themes of love, loss, and introspection.
Other standout tracks include "Are You Going with Me?", a catchy, upbeat song with a sing-along chorus and intricate instrumental sections; "Bright Size Life", a beautiful, melancholic ballad featuring Lyle Mays' emotive piano playing; and "The Longest Summer", a haunting, atmospheric piece that showcases the group's ability to create complex, layered soundscapes.
Innovative Production and Sound
One of the key factors contributing to "Still Life (Talking)"'s enduring appeal is its innovative production and sound. The album was produced by Pat Metheny and engineered by renowned producer and engineer, Michael C. Botti. The recording team's goal was to capture the group's live sound, while also pushing the boundaries of studio technology.
The album features a rich, detailed sound, with each instrument and vocal part meticulously balanced and mixed. The use of digital recording technology and various studio instruments, such as synthesizers and drum machines, added a new layer of depth and texture to the group's sound.
Critical Acclaim and Legacy
Upon its release, "Still Life (Talking)" received widespread critical acclaim, with many praising the group's bold experimentation and artistic vision. The album was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Jazz Instrumental Performance, and it has since been recognized as one of the greatest jazz albums of all time.
The album's influence can be heard in many subsequent jazz and instrumental records, and it continues to inspire new generations of musicians and fans. "Still Life (Talking)" has also been praised for its timeless quality, with many regarding it as a classic that will endure for decades to come.
Rar and Availability
For those interested in obtaining a copy of "Still Life (Talking)", the album is widely available on various formats, including CD, vinyl, and digital platforms. However, for those searching for a rare or hard-to-find version, be aware that the album has been released in several different editions and configurations over the years.
The "Rar" in the keyword "Pat Metheny Group Still Life Talking Rar" likely refers to a rare or compressed file version of the album, often shared through online file-sharing networks. However, we advise against seeking out unauthorized or pirated copies, and instead recommend exploring official channels, such as online music stores or the band's official website. Still Life (Talking) is the fifth studio album
Conclusion
The Pat Metheny Group's "Still Life (Talking)" is a masterpiece of jazz and instrumental music, showcasing the group's innovative approach, exceptional musicianship, and timeless appeal. With its rich sound, poetic lyrics, and eclectic blend of influences, this album continues to captivate audiences and inspire new generations of musicians.
Whether you're a longtime fan of the Pat Metheny Group or simply looking to explore the world of jazz, "Still Life (Talking)" is an essential listen that will reward repeated listens and continued exploration. So, if you haven't already, take a moment to experience this incredible album and discover why it remains a beloved classic in the world of jazz.
It was a hot summer evening in 1987, and the Pat Metheny Group was set to perform at the iconic jazz club, the Blue Note, in New York City. The group had just released their latest album, "Still Life (Talking)", and they were eager to share their new music with the audience.
As the band took the stage, the crowd erupted in applause. Pat Metheny, with his signature warm smile, nodded to his bandmates, and they launched into the opening notes of "Are You Going with Me?". The music was mesmerizing, a fusion of jazz, rock, and folk elements that seemed to transport the audience to another world.
As the night wore on, the band played with incredible chemistry and passion, navigating complex arrangements and showcasing their individual talents. Charlie Haden's bass lines pulsed with a life of their own, while Jack DeJohnette's drums crackled with energy. Lyle Mays' keyboards added a rich, textural layer to the sound, and Mark Egan's guitar work was both lyrical and explosive.
But as the evening reached its climax, something strange began to happen. The band launched into a rendition of "Talking", one of the album's standout tracks. As they played, the music seemed to take on a life of its own, swirling and eddying like a living thing.
Suddenly, a mysterious figure appeared on stage. It was a woman, dressed in a flowing white gown, with long, curly hair and a mischievous grin. She began to dance, her movements fluid and hypnotic, as if she were being drawn into the music itself.
The audience was transfixed, unsure of what was happening, but completely entranced. The band played on, their music weaving in and out of the woman's dance, creating a surreal and dreamlike atmosphere.
As the piece reached its conclusion, the woman vanished as suddenly as she appeared, leaving the audience in stunned silence. The band took a triumphant bow, and the crowd erupted into applause once more.
It was as if the music had come alive, and the Pat Metheny Group had tapped into something deeper and more mysterious than they could have ever imagined. The performance was a testament to the power of music to transport us to another world, and to the magic that can happen when talented musicians come together to create something special.
The next day, a fan managed to get a rare recording of the performance, and it spread like wildfire through the jazz community. The recording, compressed into a .rar file and shared through online forums, became a legendary bootleg, known only as "Pat Metheny Group Still Life Talking Rar".
For years, fans would whisper about the mysterious woman on stage, and the incredible music that seemed to conjure her up. Some said it was a manifestation of the music itself, a spirit drawn from the notes and chords. Others claimed it was just a clever trick, a publicity stunt gone wrong.
But one thing was certain: the Pat Metheny Group's performance that night was something special, a moment of musical alchemy that would stay with those who were lucky enough to witness it forever. And for those who listened to the "Still Life Talking Rar" recording, the magic of that night lived on, a testament to the power of music to transcend the ordinary and touch the sublime.
Pat Metheny Group's 1987 album Still Life (Talking) is a landmark jazz fusion record known for its heavy Brazilian influence and status as the group's first release on Geffen Records [1, 3, 13]. Album Overview Release Date: 1987 (Remastered in 2006 and 2018) [1, 10, 25]. Originally released on Geffen Records after Metheny left [3, 10, 30]. Key Personnel:
The album features Pat Metheny (guitars), Lyle Mays (keyboards), Steve Rodby (bass), Paul Wertico (drums), and Armando Marçal and Pedro Aznar (vocals and percussion) [1, 13, 15]. Accolades: Grammy Award for Best Jazz Fusion Performance Track Listing
The album is comprised of seven tracks, primarily composed by Metheny and Mays [1, 13]: Minuano (Six Eight) So May It Secretly Begin Last Train Home
(5:41) — Famous for its "Western" theme and use of brushes to simulate a train [1, 4]. (It's Just) Talk Third Wind In Her Family Availability and Format Digital Preservation: High-quality scans and CD reissues are preserved on the Internet Archive Listening:
You can find the full album or individual tracks on platforms like Remasters: A definitive 2006 remaster exists via Nonesuch Records
, which improved the digital sonic signature of the original recording [2, 8]. specific instruments Metheny used on this album, or perhaps details on the that followed?
I can’t help with requests for pirated music or providing rarities/ROMs/warez. If you’d like, I can instead:
Which would you prefer?
In 1987, the Pat Metheny Group released Still Life (Talking), a landmark recording that redefined contemporary jazz and cemented the group’s status as a global powerhouse. As the first album released on Geffen Records following their departure from ECM, it signaled a new era of creative freedom and sonic exploration. The Sound of the "Brazilian Trilogy"
Still Life (Talking) is the centerpiece of what fans and critics often call the "Brazilian Trilogy," which also includes First Circle (1984) and Letter from Home (1989). The album seamlessly blends:
Brazilian Harmonies: Complex, sun-drenched chord progressions influenced by Pat’s time in Brazil.
Wordless Vocals: The addition of vocalists Mark Ledford and David Blamires, along with percussionist Armando Marçal, added a human, orchestral texture without the use of traditional lyrics.
Cinematic Production: Co-produced by Pat Metheny and Lyle Mays, the album features a polished, "widescreen" sound that makes use of the recording studio as an instrument in its own right. Essential Tracks
The album’s tracklist is a masterclass in composition and pacing:
Still Life (Talking) is the fifth studio album by the Pat Metheny Group, released in 1987. It serves as a cornerstone of the ensemble's "Brazilian Trilogy". The Brazilian Evolution
The album marked a major shift for guitarist Pat Metheny, as it was his group's first release on Geffen Records after a nine-year tenure with ECM. This move signaled an expansion of the "Brazilian sound" first explored in their previous work, First Circle. The record famously blends complex jazz-fusion harmonies with folk and pop sensibilities. Tracklist & Composition
The album's seven tracks were primarily composed by Metheny and keyboardist Lyle Mays.
Minuano (Six Eight): An epic nine-minute opener featuring intricate rhythmic shifts.
So May It Secretly Begin: A staple of the group's live sets, often reborn as a trio improvisation.
Last Train Home: Perhaps the most famous track, it uses a rhythmic chugging to evoke a locomotive journey.
(It’s Just) Talk: A rhythmic romp showcasing the group's contemporary jazz style.
Third Wind: Noted for its high-energy guitar solos and complex percussion. Distance: A short, atmospheric piece composed by Lyle Mays.
In Her Family: A stunning, melodic finale that has inspired numerous cover interpretations. Personnel Are You Going with Me
The recording features the quintessential mid-to-late 80s lineup of the Pat Metheny Group:
Pat Metheny: Acoustic and electric guitars, guitar synthesizer. Lyle Mays: Piano and keyboards. Steve Rodby: Acoustic and electric bass. Paul Wertico: Drums. Armando Marçal: Percussion and backing vocals. Mark Ledford & David Blamires: Wordless vocals.
The year is 1987, and the air in a small coastal town is thick with the scent of salt and cedar. In a dimly lit attic, a young musician named Elias stumbles upon a dusty crate of vinyl. Tucked between jazz standards and fusion records is a pristine copy of Pat Metheny Group’s Still Life (Talking).
As the needle drops, the room transforms. The opening percussion of "Minuano (Six Eight)" isn't just music; it’s a portal. Elias closes his eyes and is instantly transported from his rainy town to the sun-drenched plains of a distant Brazil he’s only seen in dreams.
The record feels alive—a conversation between Metheny’s soaring guitar and Lyle Mays’ ethereal synths. Elias spends the night lost in the rhythmic complexity of "Last Train Home," the snare beat mimicking a locomotive crossing a vast, twilight landscape. For him, the album isn't just a collection of songs; it’s a "talking" still life—a frozen moment of pure emotion that speaks of wanderlust and homecoming all at once.
By sunrise, Elias picks up his own guitar. The album has finished, but the conversation is just beginning.
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The album "Still Life (Talking)" is a 1987 studio album by the Pat Metheny Group, featuring:
Here are some notable pieces/tracks from the album:
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Released on July 7, 1987, Still Life (Talking) is the fifth studio album by the Pat Metheny Group
and serves as a landmark in contemporary jazz fusion. The album marked the group's debut on Geffen Records
, following a long tenure with ECM, and introduced a lush, Brazilian-influenced sound that redefined the genre's accessibility. It went on to win the Grammy Award for Best Jazz Fusion Performance and was certified gold by the RIAA. Musical Composition and Innovation
The album is a collaborative achievement between Pat Metheny and keyboardist , who co-wrote, arranged, and produced the project. Brazilian Influence
: Metheny integrated South American rhythms and wordless vocal textures, featuring percussionist Armando Marçal and vocalists David Blamires Mark Ledford Technological Integration : The album showcases Metheny’s deep dive into the Synclavier for sequencing and sampling, alongside the Roland GR-300 guitar synthesizer. Mays utilized the to create his signature "flutophone" synth sound. Structural Evolution
: Tracks like "Minuano (Six Eight)" and "Third Wind" evolved from initial sketches into complex, multi-sectional suites that blend folk, pop, and jazz elements. Key Tracks and Legacy
The album's tracklist has become foundational to the Pat Metheny Group's identity:
Still Life (Talking) is the fifth studio album by the Pat Metheny Group, released on July 7, 1987. It marked a major transition for the group, being their first release on Geffen Records after nearly a decade with ECM. The album is widely celebrated as a pillar of contemporary jazz and jazz fusion, winning the Grammy Award for Best Jazz Fusion Performance and achieving RIAA gold certification in 1992. Musical Style and the "Brazilian Trilogy"
The album is the middle chapter of what fans call the "Brazilian Trilogy," sandwiched between First Circle (1984) and Letter from Home (1989).
Fusion Elements: It blends jazz with Brazilian rhythms, folk, and pop elements.
Vocal Texture: A signature of this era was the use of "wordless vocals," where singers David Blamires and Mark Ledford used their voices as melodic instruments rather than for lyrics.
Instrumentation: Metheny utilized various unique instruments, including the Roland GR-300 guitar synthesizer, Coral Sitar, and Nashville-tuned baritone guitar. Tracklist and Key Pieces
The album consists of seven tracks, most co-written by Pat Metheny and Lyle Mays: Minuano (Six Eight)
Released in 1987, Still Life (Talking) stands as a pivotal masterwork in the Pat Metheny Group discography. This album marked the beginning of the band's relationship with Geffen Records and solidified what fans often call the "Brazilian Trilogy," an era defined by lush, tropical harmonies and wordless vocal textures. The Evolution of Sound
After nearly a decade with the ECM label, the move to Geffen allowed Pat Metheny and long-time collaborator Lyle Mays to explore a more polished, visionary production style. The album is celebrated for its accessibility, blending complex jazz fusion with folk and pop sensibilities that appealed to both purists and casual listeners. Track Highlights
The album features several tracks that became essential staples of the group’s live performances:
"Minuano (Six Eight)": An expansive nine-minute epic that opens with dreamy synths and Brazilian-influenced wordless vocals, building into a rhythmic journey.
"Last Train Home": Perhaps the group's most recognizable song, it uses a rhythmic "train" beat provided by drummer Paul Wertico to evoke a reflective journey across a desert landscape.
"Third Wind": A high-energy track featuring a "quicksilver" guitar solo that nods to Metheny’s bebop roots while maintaining a smoldering Brazilian groove. Core Personnel
The chemistry on this record is driven by a stellar lineup of musicians:
Pat Metheny: Acoustic and electric guitars, guitar synthesizer. Lyle Mays: Piano and keyboards. Steve Rodby: Acoustic and electric bass. Paul Wertico: Drums.
Armando Marçal, David Blamires, and Mark Ledford: Vocals and percussion. Legacy and Recognition
Still Life (Talking) was a commercial and critical triumph, winning the Grammy Award for Best Jazz Fusion Performance and eventually receiving RIAA gold certification. You can find further details and track listings on platforms like Discogs and AllMusic.
Pat Metheny Still Life Album Review - New York Jazz Workshop
Here’s a feature-style article on the enduring mystique and rarity of Pat Metheny Group’s Still Life (Talking), tailored to fans, collectors, and audiophiles.
The true “rarity” isn’t on the album at all. During the Still Life (Talking) tour (documented on the video release More Travels), the band performed two pieces never released on the studio album: a stunning extended intro to “Last Train Home” and a standalone piece fans call “The Marcello Suite.” These exist only as muddy third-generation VHS rips or audience recordings. A soundboard-quality version has never surfaced—making those bootlegs the rarest Metheny artifacts of the era.
While CDs dominated by 1987, Geffen Records did issue Still Life (Talking) on vinyl. But try finding a clean, non-US first pressing today. The German and Japanese pressings (Geffen Records – 28DP 794, and Geffen Records – GHS 24145 respectively) are considered the holy grails. Why?
As surround sound formats emerged in the early 2000s, Still Life (Talking) was listed in advance catalogs for both SACD and DVD-Audio release—remixed in 5.1 by Metheny and engineer Rob Eaton. The SACD was scrapped last-minute due to “licensing disputes between Geffen and Warner.” A handful of test pressings reportedly exist in private hands. In 2024, one sold on Discogs for $4,200.