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In this Recordings, Howard Alden makes kind of a compilation of what a Jazz Guitar really is. If I'd have to own only one jazz guitar CD, this would be my choice.

What a great record this is! What a blast of joyous Jazz! It swings, it sizzles, and connects in every way. Howard Alden's guitar work is superb, and the tones he coaxes from his instruments are gorgeous. Dig the 7-string acoustic guitar! Check out the solo version of My Funny Valentine!

Yet even aside from Howard Alden's very fine playing, there are some other very special performances on this album. Firstly, playing above and beyond the call of duty, is Tenor-man Lew Tabackin. Who is this masked man?! WOW, what a wonderful player! A revelation!; and he's a fine flute-player too! (IMHO, the word "flautist" is very silly, but that's another story...)

Then there's Renee Rosnes, whose piano playing is just wonderful. She is outstanding throughout here, and beautifully recorded. What a talent this lady is; such a great touch, and superb, sparkling solos. Must also mention that bassist Michael Moore and drummer Bill Goodwin are terrific too. What a band! and beautifully led by Howard Alden.

Dear Jazz fan, do yourself a favour and check out this great album right away! Swinging, heart-felt, and absolutely recommended.

if you enjoy excellent guitar, a variety of material and interpretive styles, and a good mix of musicians and musical settings. Lew Tabackin plays on 4 cuts, my favorites being two complex and cooking Herbert Nichols' tunes, "House Party Starting" and "The Gig" plus a Billy Strayhorn composition, "U.M.M.G.", done in a bossa nova style with Lew on flute. Renee Rosnes, piano, plays on 6 selections including a great job on a duet standard, "You're My Thrill". I hadn't heard her before but she caught my attention on the opener, "I Concentrate On You". I've since learned that she has 8 cds out on the Blue Note label. Michael Moore provides the bass work and will be noticed especially on a beautiful rendition of "Warm Valley" and again on a quartet number, the familiar Berlin's "How Deep Is The Ocean". You can appreciate drummer Bill Goodwin's work best on the aforementioned Herbie Nichols tunes.

The leader of course is an accomplished guitarist both on the electric and acoustic guitars which are both featured throughout this cd. Besides the group work , he is featured in 2 unaccompanied tracks, "My Funny Valentine" and a little known minor hit ballad by Al Jarreau in the '80's, "After All".

You will enjoy this album particularly if you appreciate 7 string guitar, especially Howard Alden, Lew Tabackin, Renee Rosnes, small group swing or mainstream jazz, or just a good listening experience from a very pleasing program.