Martin Taylor: In Concert

Uncluttered clean sound and his intuitive sense of melody put Martin Taylor a significant cut above other jazz guitarists of his generation. His unique technique along with the type of guitar he plays, which combines features of both the electric and acoustic instrument, allows him to emphasize precision and clarity. There's no smarmy strumming with his playing. Respect for melody does not inhibit Taylor's urge to improvise. Listen to the variations on "Taking a Chance on Love" with its shifting harmonies and rhythms. He turns to classical forms with his interpretation of "Stella by Starlight" as it comes across as a sonata for solo guitar recalling the work of Joe Pass. On "I Got Rhythm", Taylor plays melody, chords and bass all at once leaving one convinced that there are either two guitar players or that dubbing has been employed (it has not). One of the highlight tracks is Taylor's poignant offering of Benny Golson's paean to Clifford Brown, "I Remember Clifford".

Taylor manages to keep a large enthusiastic audience in the palm of his hand for over an hour. Purchasers of this album will be just as entertained as they were. Recommended. Visit Taylor on the Internet at www.sonymusic.co.uk/martintaylor/ martintaylor/index. html.