So far, my map of jazz month at Blogcritics has gone from guitar to saxophone (plus full-on freakout orchestra). Now it's time to switch back to the guitar. Hey, it's 'my' instrument, so why not?
I've chosen one of my favorite guitarists, Jim Hall, because he's a great example of a player who's equally comfortable in both traditional and "modern" settings. On Jim Hall's Three, his understated tone is employed to give beautiful renderings of things like "All The Things You Are," and "Three," as well as more angular pieces like the opening "Hide And Seek".
If you're not familiar with the name Jim Hall, you have still probably heard his guitar. Here's a short list of his collaborators over the years: Chico Hamilton, Sonny Rollins, Jimmy Giuffre, Ella Fitzgerald, Pat Metheny, Art Farmer, Stan Getz, Bill Evans, Eric Dolphy, Ornette Coleman. That's a whole lotta jazz history right there folks! Oh, and let's not forget Merv Griffin. Merv Griffin? Ya, I love this story. The guitar teacher who introduced me to the music of Jim Hall (thanks Gerry!) was such a fan of Hall that he attended a taping of the Griffin show because Hall was in Griffin's band. Now that is a true fan.
What I've always liked about Halls approach is its economy. He never overplays, looking for just the right notes. His comping style is fairly unique too. He sometimes turns the volume down all the way and just strums hard. Obviously, that won't work in support of a loud soloist. Underneath the bass solo of a Steve LaSpina or Ron Carter though, it's quite effective.
Sadly, Jim Hall's Three appears to be out of print. However, I did find a nice video (posted below) of Hall and Steve LaSpina performing "Two's Blues". I'm tellin' you, you're gonna run right out and buy a Jim Hall record after this.
Next week, I will close out my contribution to jazz month with some yakkin' about my favorite jazz record. Any guesses?
Article comments
1 - B. Justice
What a nice way to spend a Friday morning. Jim Hall is amazing-- definitely a legend, likely our greatest living jazz guitarist. His solos are sonnets, and his personality is as warm and unpretentious as his playing.
2 - Mark Saleski
that's true. i got to see him once at the Regattabar in cambridge, ma...and during the break he spent over an hour just shooting the breeze with people in the crowd. seemed very personable.