Search - Pat Martino :: Consciousness

JAZZ GUITAR AT ITS FINEST!

Philip J. Lane | miami, florida USA | 04/05/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Pat Martino has long been one of the most important post Wes Montgomery jazz guitarists on the scene. For the most part eshewing the cliched fusion stylings of the mid 70s- early 80s (cf john mclaughlin, larry coryell, et al),Martino instead focuses on a more john coltraneish/modal scale harmonic approach coupled with monster chops. Consciousness represents the apex of Pat's recording career, emphasing excellent compostions, swinging grooves, challenging solos and sensitive interaction between the supporting musicians on this recording. The opening track, a blistering up tempo version of coltrane's impressions in downright scary! As a jazz guitarist myself, the first time i heard this track I almost gave up playing! The title track, a somewhat abstract melody line written by the highly underrated blind philadelphia saxophonist Eric Kloss (with whom pat has recorded several excellent albums) unfolds almost organically, with excellent solos by all the musicians. Other highlights include an excellent version of benny golson's along came bettey and a frenetic Martino compostion- on the stairs. I rank this as one of the most important jazz guitar albums of all time. a must have recording!"

One of My Favorite Pat Martino Albums

Mark A. Daniels | Waterford, CT United States | 06/24/2004

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Consciousness is an album which radiates life, energy, and soulfullness, characteristics of its maker, Pat Martino. Pat doesn't hold back on the solos on this album; they go from slow and soulfull to fast and intense. Pat's creativity with the tune's he's chosen for this album are well arranged and as usual, provide a solid foundation for his extraordinary solos. The fast pieces, s.a. the opening song "Consciousness" swing and flow with a kind of feverish elegence. His take of "Both Sides Now" is very warm, melodic, and thoughtful. I confess my bias toward his style of playing, reminiscent of his mentors and predecessors, such as Wes Montgomery, Tal Farlow, and others who played in the hard bop (if I must label it) style. I highly recommend this album as a great addition to anyone that loves jazz, or to anyone open for the sound of a great musician and human being."

Dreams are born

R. Haft | 06/24/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Just get this cd if you love jazz. Martino plays things others don't even dream about. His originality, clarity, and controlled aggression in this album are priceless. His melodicism on tunes such as Willow and Along Came Betty are Martino classics. Both Sides Now is a solo interpretation of this popular song which gives it new meaning. His fire and originality on Impressions will convince you that he could have played with Coltrane and held his own. This could be one of your "trapped on an island" cds."