Chester & Lester is a beautiful and fun album by two masters. It was recorded in the mid-'70s when
Chet Atkins was in his fifties and
Les Paul was in his sixties. The latter had been in retirement for a decade before the recording of this album. Nashville studio musicians, including
Randy Goodrum on piano and
Larrie Londin on drums, back up the master guitarists, but this is by no means a country album. In fact, this album swings on classics such as "Birth of the Blues," "Avalon," and "Caravan." Other classic songs, including "It's Been a Long Time" and "It Had to Be You," are beautifully rendered, featuring
Les Paul's instantly recognizable ringing bell tone and
Chet Atkins' fluid, slightly twangy sound. The recording has an informal feel, with between-song banter (and even some joking in the middle of songs) included on the record, which adds to the enjoyment and warmth of this album. The listener knows that the musicians are having a great time. According to the liner notes, only two songs have any overdubs, so, "You hear the music just as it came down." And it all "came down" beautifully. [The 2007 edition included bonus tracks.] ~ Tim Griggs