Wes Montgomery

Most people consider Wes Montgomery to be the most influential jazz guitarist in history. Wes practically invented a new style of playing octaves and block chord solos, and was also the most adventurous jazz guitarist in terms of rhythmic playing.

Wes's best recordings were done on the Riverside label. You can't go wrong with any of those albums. The recordings on the Verve and A&M labels are mixed, ranging from straight ahead jazz (Smokin' at the Half Note) to some very commercial ones, but Wes's playing is always soulful and engaging, even when the context is less than ideal. A good discography can be found on Al Fila's site.

• No Blues - This is a small excerpt from a very long solo that is one of Wes's most famous. You can find a microcosm of Wes in this solo ranging from super clear melodic lines, to octave passages, to repeating rhythmic figures, to block chords and every combination of these.
• James and Wes - The Wes Montgomery collboration with Jimmy Smith is magical. Wes is at his melodic best on this blues, interjecting some chords as the choruses progress. The relaxed swing and rhythmic forward motion are incredible.
• Road Song - A great Wes original, and an amazing solo. On the 2nd chorus Wes starts a simple minor lick and weaves it through the changes seamlessly. As usual, a great octave solo follows the single note solo.
• Tear It Down - Another solo that follows the structural formula and gives Wes an opportunity to showcase his great melodic phrasing.