Episode #20 - Ralph Towner: At First Light

This podcast episode features an interview with acclaimed American guitarist Ralph Towner, discussing his early days with ECM Records, his collaborations with Manfred Eicher, and his new solo album, "At First Light." The episode explores Towner's meticulous approach to composition and improvisation within a structured framework, his role as a visionary curator within ECM, and the profound influence of the piano on his musical journey. It also examines the impact of Bill Evans and Miles Davis on Pat Metheny's musical development, Towner's experiences playing with great jazz musicians, the vibrant jazz scene in New York City, the musical influences that shaped the speaker's style, and the journey of the band Oregon. The episode concludes with Towner's personal journey, his move to Italy, and his admiration for ECM and Manfred Eicher's studio environment.