Dive into the timeless elegance of jazz with Barney Kessel's "Blue Guitar," a posthumous release that captures the essence of his unparalleled guitar mastery. Originally released on August 17, 2006, this album is a testament to Kessel's profound understanding of chords, inversions, and chord-based melodies, which he was renowned for in the jazz world.
"Blue Guitar" is a collection of 14 tracks, each a gem in its own right, spanning a total duration of 1 hour and 3 minutes. The album features a blend of cool jazz, bebop, and hard bop, showcasing Kessel's versatility and depth as a musician. From the hauntingly beautiful "Willow Weep For Me" to the upbeat "It Don't Mean A Thing (If It Ain't Got That Swing)," each song is a journey through the rich tapestry of jazz history.
Kessel's virtuosic guitar playing is complemented by a stellar lineup of musicians, including Carlo Conti on saxophone, Tiziano Ruggeri on trumpet and flugelhorn, Enrico Bracco on guitar, and Stefano Nunzi on piano. Their collective talent breathes life into each track, making "Blue Guitar" a captivating experience for both longtime jazz enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Whether you're in the mood for the sultry rhythms of "Limehouse Blues" or the dreamy melodies of "Blue Moon," "Blue Guitar" offers a diverse range of moods and styles. This album is not just a tribute to Barney Kessel's legacy but also a celebration of the enduring appeal of jazz music.