By GRAHAM REID
(Herald rating: * * * * )
Jazz guitarist Hall has been subject to a major rediscovery by critics and the public alike since the mid-90s.
His album with fellow guitarist Pat Metheny in late '99 probably drew in an even younger generation than those who remember his fluid, mercurial style from the 50s.
This selection of a dozen tracks from five Telarc albums could — as with his Ballad Essentials compilation of two years ago — act as an excellent introduction to the man as he plays duets (with former Miles Davis guitarist Mike Stern, accordionist Gil Goldstein among others), with large and small bands, and in setting with two bassists. At the time of these recordings, Hall was in his 60s, but his deftness, subtlety, sheer technical ability and ear for an understated improvisation was undiminished. Refined, genteel even, but always rewarding.
Label: Telarc/Elite
<i>Jim Hall:</i> Downbeat Critic's Choice
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