Recorded live in 1968 at the NDR Studio 12, Hamburg by a fine mix of British, American and European musicians this is, to the best of my knowledge, the first time this concert has been available on record.
Whilst Montgomery is the undisputed star of the show, the others are by no means bit players. The horns are heard to advantage in various setting with Ronnie Scott unfazed by his illustrious fellow tenor player - well he wouldn't be would he? he was used to blowing alongside Tubby Hayes! In fact, on the earlier tracks I prefer Scott - maybe Griffin was still sober! However, by track 8 the American was up to the mark.
Ronnie Ross not only underpins it all on baritone but he also provided several of the arrangements.
Martial Solal's solos reminded me just how good a pianist he was and Hans Koller's agile alto playing was another highlight.
As for Montgomery, he doesn't stretch himself unduly but does just enough to keep the audience happy which would be beyond most lesser guitarists. However, Montgomery is anything but 'a lesser guitarist' and it is significant that his best shots are fired when the horns presumably have gone to the bar!
The rhythm section of Gaudry and Sunderland born Ronnie Stephenson are the driving force behind it all and, I say without prejudice (well hardly any) that he ranks with the all-time greats of British and European jazz.
Not a great record but still a one that is well worth checking out.
Lance
The CD which is on the Jazzline Classics label comes with a blue-ray disc of the pre-concert rehearsal but, not having blue-ray facilities i can't comment.
West Coast Blues; Four on Six; Last of the wine; Here's that Rainy Day; Opening; Blue Grass; Blue Monk; The Leopard Walks; Twisted Blues; West Coast Blues (encore).
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