Every so often Pat Metheny dispenses with the synths, brass and wordless vocals and gets back to basics. Invariably, this minimalist approach yields a top-notch jazz recording. Such is the case with Trio 99>00. Working with bassist Larry Grenadier and fiery drummer Bill Stewart, Metheny steps forward and demonstrates that he still has the chops to be considered among the front ranks of modern guitarists. His cool, melodious lines snap with renewed vigour, the interplay between his sidemen, especially Stewart, extraordinary. Metheny revisits his early compositions ("Travels" and "Lone Jack"), reworks a couple of jazz standards (Coltrane’s "Giant Steps", Wayne Shorter’s "Capricorn"), and even includes a Broadway show tune ("A Lot Of Livin’ To Do"). A diverse and varied program that catches Metheny in peak form. While Trio 99>00 may not posses the broad commercial appeal of Metheny’s early albums like We Live Here or Imaginary Day, jazz purists will love it. ####