Famous American guitarist John Amebrcrombie has left us at 72 years of age. In recent years he had major health problems including a stroke earlier this year, and the heart failure was fatal.
This outstanding musician, whom we presented with great pleasure at the 15th Jazz Festival Sarajevo 2011, was a tireless experimenter, composer, improviser, firmly attached to jazz tradition but persistent in moving the boundaries. In his career, lasting more than four decades, he has released nearly 50 albums, 30 of them as the leader of various bands.
He has cooperated with many of the most significant musicians, including Marc Copland, Jan Garbarek, Ralph Towner, John Scofield, Jack DeJohnette, and others. His tone, particular musicality and manner made him one of the most talented guitarists of our time.
He was born in 1944, and at the age of 14 he started playing guitar. His breakthrough on the music scene was marked by the album Timeless from 1975 released for ECM. Abercrombie’s latest album was released this year with Up and Coming pianist Copland, bassist Drew Gress and drummer Joey Baron.
Abercrombie performed in Sarajevo six years ago with his outstanding quartet of exquisite musicians – violinist Mark Feldman, double bass player Thomas Morgan and drummer Joey Baron.
Photo: John Abercromie, 15th Jazz Fest Sarajevo 2011 (Armin Smailović)