xi Xiaping

The two guitar icons Larry Coryell and Philip Catherine have a long history and a close musical affinity, despite their different influences on this and the other side of the Atlantic. Recorded on January 27, 2017 as part of the "Jazz at Berlin Philharmonic" series, "The Last Call" is the last recording of Larry Coryell, who passed away four weeks later on February 19, 2017. And an echo of a very special relationship between two very great guitarists, full of creative compatibility, enthusiasm and deep mutual understanding.

The 11th studio long-player from the veteran hard rockers, the aptly, though rather lazily, named XI marks the return of vocalist Mike Howe to the Metal Church fold – Ronny Munroe left the group in 2014 to "pursue other interests." Hearing Howe's sinister and instantly recognizable banshee wail reunited with showrunner/guitarist Kurdt Vanderhoof's taut, melodic riffing is a thrill, especially for longtime fans…