George Barnes Quartet - Don't Get Around Much Anymore (2017) [Hi-Res]

George Barnes has been unjustly overlooked by fans of jazz guitar, since he spent a good portion of his career as a studio musician, but the initial appearance in 2003 of this previously unreleased 1977 concert (recorded just a few months prior to his death) adds an important final chapter to his recorded legacy. Barnes leads his brand new quartet (with fellow guitarist Duncan James, bassist Dean Reilly, and drummer Benny Barth) through a delightful program of standards ("Sweet Georgia Brown," "Moonglow," and "Why Was I Born?"), gems from the vast Duke Ellington band book ("Don't Get Around Much Anymore" and "Perdido"), as well as the popular "Theme From the Flintstones." Barnes' fluid playing and that of his group make them sound as if they had been together far longer. The excellent sound by engineer Larry Cummings is identical to the mix heard by the audience that very evening. The warm, detailed liner notes by Barnes' daughter, Alexandra Barnes Leh, add a nice touch to this highly recommended release. -- Ken Dryden