(I found this picture here.)
An explanation: Since the name Gary is going extinct, I thought it incumbent upon me to celebrate more notable Garys than myself. This is the fourth of a series!
Gary Peacock is, according to the Wikipedia, "an American jazz double-bassist." He started performing in the 1960s, notably playing with Bill Evans, Albert Ayler, & even Miles Davis. He is still with us, at the age of eighty, & I hope still performing. (Update: he is!)
When did you first become aware of him? Probably on the mid-1960s Albert Ayler records, especially Ghosts.
Are you a fan of jazz bassists? Honestly, I know very little about the bass guitar, in jazz or otherwise. I try very hard when I listen to Peacock's sessions to pay attention to his artistry, but he strikes me as in the same vein as the late, great Charlie Haden. I like how versatile he is.
Did you know he studied Zen Buddhism in the late 60s? I didn't, but I have read about it. I imagine it helps musicians a lot to practice mindfulness, which is something you can learn in meditation, which you can learn as you study Buddhism.
Ever seen him live? I haven't. I would have liked seeing him playing with Ayler, as well as the stuff he did with Keith Jarrett in the early 80s. I really need to spend more time with Peacock's work as a leader.
Is his name really Gary? As far as I can tell, it is, & he apparently has no middle name.
Do you know why he was named Gary? It's gotta be Gary Cooper, again. Peacock was born in 1935!
Anything else you want to say? No, but if you'd like to see him play, here's a snippet:
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