R.I.P. Paul Motian (1931-2011).

Thursday, December 01, 2011

Ian Mann on the passing of a jazz great.

I was saddened to learn of the death of American drummer and composer Paul Motian due to a bone marrow condition at the age of 80.

A superlative accompanist and colourist Motian is perhaps best known for his work with the pianists Bill Evans and Keith Jarrett and appeared on many of their classic recordings. His work with Jarrett led to a long association with the German ECM label for whom he recorded many albums as a small group leader. His creativity remained undimmed to the end with two of his later ECM albums “Lost In A Dream” and “Live At Birdland” ranking among his best.

I only saw him play live only once, this being at Cheltenham Jazz Festival around ten years ago when Motian performed as a member of British saxophonist Martin Speake’s “International Group”, a line up that went on to record the ECM album “Change Of Heart”. Shaven headed and shades wearing I remember commenting that Motian must surely be “the world’s coollest seventy year old”. His playing was as immaculate as his appearance and it was a real privilege to watch him play.

Motian’s legacy is a rich discography of classic recordings and an incalculable influence on so many contemporary jazz drummers. May he Rest In Peace.