Tal Farlow - The Complete Verve Sessions (2011)

Tal Farlow, was an innovative self-taught jazz guitarist who influenced generations of guitarists following in his footsteps. Although some of his peak years as a recording artist occurred during his association with Verve between 1954 and 1959, relatively few of the tracks were available for decades until the release of this comprehensive Mosaic box set. The music is consistently brilliant, as the leader's solos seem to evolve effortlessly, often finding fresh ground in the many standards and classic jazz compositions performed in this set. Aside from the three opening tracks from Farlow's days as a member of vibraphonist Red Norvo's trio, the guitarist is the leader. His meeting with fellow guitarist Barry Galbraith (with bassist Oscar Pettiford and a surprisingly restrained Joe Morello on drums) is highlighted by his intricate original "Gibson Boy." The sessions with pianist Gerry Wiggins, bassist Ray Brown, and drummer Chico Hamilton focus primarily on standards, though "And She Remembers Me" is an obvious reworking of "I'll Remember April"; the rapid-fire take of "Cherokee" takes top honors. Two separate dates with pianist Claude Williamson and bassist Red Mitchell (one which adds drummer Stan Levey) stick exclusively to standards, with plenty of lively interplay. Two sessions with West Coast stylists including valve trombonist Bob Enevoldsen, tenor saxophonist Bill Perkins, and baritone saxophonist Bob Gordon complement Farlow's sound very well. It is surprising that producer Norman Granz did not initially release a unique date with Oscar Pettiford (on cello) as a second front-line instrument, with the outstanding rhythm section of Hank Jones, Ray Brown, and Louie Bellson. Highlights from this meeting include the cellist's "Swingin' Till the Girls Come Home," "Jordu," and two takes of "Bernie's Tune." A regular working trio led by Farlow with pianist Eddie Costa (who died far too young following a car wreck in 1962) and bassist Vinnie Burke produced three separate albums (with Knobby Totah or Bill Takas taking Burke's place on the final session). The chemistry between Farlow and Costa is readily apparent. Another musician who died far too young, Belgian flutist and tenor saxophonist Bobby Jaspar, joined the guitarist, bassist Milt Hinton, and drummer Osie Johnson for three numbers featuring Farlow on an acoustic instrument for the first time, producing the kind of jazz that only true aficionados can appreciate. A larger group with saxophonist and flutist Frank Wess, trombonist Benny Powell, pianist Dick Hyman, and baritone saxophonist Charles Fowlkes delves into the music of Harold Arlen, including several long overlooked songs composed for the musical Saratoga along with some of his best-known works, though at times their unfamiliarity with some of the tunes and each other is apparent. The detailed booklet contains many rare photos of Farlow and the men who worked with him, along with an informative analysis by fellow guitarist Howard Alden. This limited-edition collection should be on every jazz guitar fan's wish list.