After the passing of
Joe Pass
, Britain's
Martin Taylor
has risen to become one of the premier
jazz
guitarists on the scene. Despite that, he's presented on a relatively small label here. The music is a mix of original compositions by
Taylor
(and compatriot
Simon Dinnigan
) and
standards
from around the
repertoire.
has a relatively light touch, reminiscent, at times, of some
new age
players. Simultaneously though, he can pick his way through intricate passages akin to a piano player. At that however, not necessarily a
piano player.
is admittedly influenced by the likes of
Art Tatum
, but his style is almost that of a
classical
pianist through much of the recording, and certainly on the order of a
guitarist. Guest vocalists are present (opera singer
Bryn Terfel
and
Sacha Distel
in particular), though their talents don't quite fit with
Simon & Garfunkel
covers, truthfully. Overall, the covers are nice, though not always fitting. The originals are where
really shines, letting his style flow as it will through the passages without worrying about remaining true to the original composers. Worth a listen for
guitar fans, though
is likely not unheard of for those in the know anyway. ~ Adam Greenberg