Larry Coryell: The Godfather of Fusion Strikes Again

In the mid-70s, when the air was ripe with musical experimentation, a lone guitarist named Larry Coryell wielded his Hagstrom Swede and led the charge with his band, Eleventh House. This ensemble became a bastion of the then-burgeoning art form known as jazz fusion—melding the intricate rhythms of jazz with the vibrant energy of rock. But as decades rolled into new eras, Coryell’s heart tuned back to his classic jazz roots. Yet, every rhythm finds its symphony, and Coryell’s heart was no different.

A Return to Roots

Revisiting his fusion roots wasn’t just a nod to the past; it was a fierce rekindling. Earthquake at the Avalon, a sonic cathedral built on Coryell’s eclectic experiences, stands as a testament to this musical renaissance. This album doesn’t just echo the sounds of yesteryears but harmonizes them with his present. Collaborating with his son Julian and the eclectic David Hidalgo, this fusion fest was as organic as the melody it birthed. According to Vintage Guitar® magazine, the allotment of guitar roles flowed naturally, each player delving deep into the heart of improvisational freedom.

The Guitars That Made History

What gear does a maestro of Coryell’s caliber trust? With guitars, the bond is as personal as it is musical. Coryell brought to life electrifying tunes with a white Les Paul Standard, passed onto Julian, and a Hamer Daytona. However, his Gibson Super 400 remained his faithful jazz companion through the years, a vessel of countless musical voyages. While Earthquake at the Avalon saw blistering riffs and harmonics, Coryell’s jazz rig eschewed complexity in favor of purity.

The Love Affair with Strings

Back in the ‘70s, Coryell’s love affair with Hagstrom solidbodies and Ovation acoustics symbolized an era focused on durability and distinctive sound. From road tours to stage spotlights, these instruments bore witness to his evolution. “The Ovations were practical workhorses,” Coryell muses, though today, their plywood charm remains as distant as a bygone gig.

Influences and Legacy

Influenced by legends like Wes Montgomery and B.B. King, Coryell built a bridge where innovation walked hand in hand with tradition. He believes the brilliance of classic jazz guitar stems from its evolutionary journey, starting with Charlie Christian. Today, as a torchbearer for the jazz guitar tradition, Coryell ensures it remains relevant, much like how Scofield and Metheny add to its luster.

Jazz Guitar in the 21st Century

Beyond the riotous roars of amplified fusion, jazz guitar has claimed its crown in the 21st century. From connoisseurs to casual listeners, it has transformed into a vessel for transcendent musical experiences. Bridging past and present, Coryell’s journey paints a vibrant picture of an art that continues to grow, with new sounds echoing its timeless legacy.

In the dance of six strings, Larry Coryell stands as a stalwart pillar. His legacy continues to inspire, proving that fusion isn’t merely a genre but a philosophy—a belief in the relentless exploration of sound and sensation.

Embrace the symphony, and let Coryell’s melodies lead you back to fusion’s fiery heart, a journey you won’t soon forget.