VINYL EDITION!

Orrin Keepnews comments on this release: "I began constructing the 1960 definitive presentation of [Wes] Montgomery by recognizing the need to keep things as clear-cut and uncomplicated as possible. There were at least three unique aspects to his performing style: he played with his thumb, never using a pick... and his solos almost invariably included two elements routinely referred to as ‘impossible'-his use of octaves and of pianistic block chords. Self-taught (his first ‘lesson' had involved heavy listening to Charlie Christian records) and never able to read music notation of any kind, he somehow possessed an unfailing command of the blues and of ballad tempo and was an impressive composer."

Personnel: Wes Montgomery on guitar and pianist Tommy Flanagan, bassist Percy Heath and drummer Albert "Tootie" Heath

Key songs: "Airegin," "Four on Six, "Gone With the Wind"