Search - Milt Jackson, Wes Montgomery :: Bags Meets Wes

Bags Meets Wes! - Essential!

Stephen Reddy | Brisbane | 06/16/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Milt Jackson was 38 when, in December 1961, he co-led this superb hard-bop date with the distinctive guitarist Wes Montgomery. A jazzman who was as opinionated as he was gifted, Jackson wouldn't hesitate to tell you exactly what he thought of a musician -- so when he praised Montgomery, you knew his praise was genuine. Not surprisingly, the boppers prove to be quite compatible on Bags Meets Wes, which finds them co-leading an all star-quintet that also includes pianist Wynton Kelly, bassist Sam Jones, and drummer Philly Joe Jones (who shouldn't be confused with swing drummer Jo Jones). Although Jackson and Montgomery prove what lyrical ballad players they could be on the standard "Stairway to the Stars," ballads aren't a high priority on this album. Instead, the improvisers put more of their energy into the blues -- and the 12-bar format serves them well on "Sam Sack," "Blue Roz," and "S.K.J." Equally strong are hard-swinging versions of Montgomery's "Jingles" and Benny Golson's "Stablemates.""

Very cool & calm....

Nestor S. Tupinamba | São Paulo, SP Brazil | 10/03/2008

(4 out of 5 stars)

"A perfect integration of the vibes and guitar resulting in a delicate and beatiful musical string that cativates you and transport together.....

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If you like the artists, or even just their instruments, buy

William E. Adams | Midland, Texas USA | 04/09/2010

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Vibes master Milt Jackson had a very long recording career, while guitarist Wes Montgomery had a sadly short one, and for real jazz, even shorter, since when he signed with the Verve label he did pop songs in pop style. However, in late 1961 these players spent two days making this recording for the Riverside label, and now it has been remastered and reissued with alternate takes and extensive booklet notes. It is beautiful all the way through. If you find the sounds of vibes or electric jazz guitar pleasing (and I hope you do) get this CD before it disappears from the marketplace. The piano, bass and drums are all done well here also, by very respected pros.

You will get more than an hour of gently swinging lovely music, by men who deserve to be listened to again and again."