Gary Burton - The New Quartet (2025) Hi-Res

The New Quartet is an album by jazz vibraphonist Gary Burton, recorded over two days in March 1973 and released on ECM later that year. The eponymous quartet features rhythm section Mick Goodrick, Abraham Laboriel and Harry Blazer.

As well as being the great vibraphone innovator of the era, Gary Burton is known for his unparalleled intuition as a talent scout. In 1973, The New Quartet introduced Abraham Laboriel: this was the first recording of the bassist who would soon become one of the most in-demand session players across all genres. “It must be emphasised that Laboriel sounds like a major artist in the making with his astonishing bass work,” wrote Melody Maker.

Guitarist Mick Goodrick also emerged as a player to watch on this album, shining in a well-conceived programme with compositions of Keith Jarrett, Chick Corea, Carla Bley, Mike Gibbs and bandleader Burton.