Smokin' At The Half Note

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  1965

  James

  Montgomery’s guitar playing combines technical fluidity and melodic clarity so naturally that the virtuosity almost disappears inside the feel. Backed by the Wynton Kelly Trio, he swings with extraordinary ease on “No Blues” and “Unit 7.” His octave technique sounds expressive rather than flashy because every phrase serves melodic shape and momentum. The live setting gives the music looseness and conversational energy. The rhythm section pushes constantly without crowding Montgomery’s space. It remains one of the great live jazz guitar recordings.