Originally released by Cobblestone and later by Muse, this 1997 CD reissue from 32 Jazz features the distinctive and exploratory guitarist
Pat Martino in a tribute to
Wes Montgomery.
Martino does not attempt to sound like
Wes (although he uses octaves here and there), and only one of the six selections ("Road Song") was actually recorded by
Montgomery; the tribute is more heartfelt than imitative. With the intuitive assistance of rhythm guitarist Bobby Rose, bassist
Richard Davis, and drummer
Billy Higgins,
Martino stretches out on six selections, including a bluesy original ("The Visit"), "Footprints," and "Alone Together," always sounding like himself and pushing the boundaries of straight-ahead jazz. ~ Scott Yanow