Yesterday I was in the studio recording a couple more tunes for my project (that I'm finally finishing). One of them was a deep reharmonization of the tune "Pure Imagination," where the chords change every beat or two in a non-key, enharmonic way that sounds awesome but is challenging to read on the fly. While we were sight reading the chart my sax player, Jacam Manricks, got to his solo and played this (click link):
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/8xqz44ub ... m9cqs&dl=0
And this was just the rehearsal. The real takes are even better. It takes Jacam until midway through the bridge to really get going, but what a monster player and ear. He was so good, in fact, that I decided not to even play a solo on that tune, but still include it in my project. No way I can compete.
During the experience I suddenly became overwhelmed with gratitude for the privilege and honor I have at this stage of my life to be able to play with such amazing musicians. At one point I just stopped playing and closed my eyes to let the music wash over me.
And after Jacam finished, Barry Finnerty (Miles Davis, Brecker Bros., Crusaders, etc.) serenaded me with a guitar solo that was also amazing. I don't deserve to be in the same room with these guys, but boy am I glad I was. It's great to be the worst player in the room.
It made me grateful for everyone I get to play with, but particularly Jacam. No matter our level or situation, we all have reasons to be inspired by our musical compatriots. It's just that I have better reasons than most.
What in your musical life inspires you?