43- Bright Size Life and Jaco Pastorius

Standards Rating 6 Difficulty Rating 7

In this episode, we look at “Bright Size Life,” the standout title track from Pat Metheny’s 1976 debut album of the same name, and the life and career of Jaco Pastorius, the man who redefined electric bass playing in jazz. The track is a masterful blend of jazz, folk, and rock, featuring Metheny’s signature open chord voicings and a flowing, lyrical melody. But what truly sets it apart is the incredible bass work by Jaco Pastorius. His fretless bass gives the track a unique, almost singing tone, and his use of harmonics and fluid phrasing brings a new dimension to the music. Jaco’s bass line isn’t just a support; it’s a melodic force of its own, weaving in and out of Metheny’s guitar with rhythmic precision and harmonic creativity. This interplay between guitar and bass, supported by Bob Moses’ subtle drumming, creates an expansive atmosphere that defines the track. Bright Size Life showcases Metheny’s compositional genius and Jaco’s ability to push the boundaries of what a bass can do, making it a landmark in jazz fusion.

Pat Metheny (studio recording) - https://youtu.be/0Ozv_S1fuis?si=B11U_5V55NrunhlK

Pat Metheny (live) https://youtu.be/TAAilVUqwSw?si=QQz32RKMqH69Pn0d

Spotify Playlist https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5bla6DuepTMq3kdzUlXTy7?si=jl6quMa3S16tJp3VtNAnSw