I was thinking today about why I find Herbie Hancock’s solos so consistently compelling. Of course he swings more consistently than any other pianist alive (of whom I’m aware). But I’m thinking now from a melodic point of view. I think the basic, visceral reaction comes from the fact that Herbie’s solos provide the perfect balance of tension and release. If there is too much tension, it is difficult to remember melody (and for me melody creates an emotional connection). If there is too little tension, you get, well, New Age Music.
Here’s a track containing one of my favorite Herbie solos, One Finger Snap