“Guitar Groove!” is an album by René Thomas, recorded on September 7 and 8, 1960, at Nola Penthouse Studios, New York, and originally released on Jazzland Records (JLP 927S). The Jazz Workshop Vinyl reissue as a 180-gram audiophile LP (JW-074) revives this record with remastering that emphasizes the guitar’s clarity. The lineup features René Thomas (guitar), J.R. Monterose (tenor saxophone), Hod O’Brien (piano), George Tucker (bass), and Al Levitt (drums). The album includes standards like Autumn Leaves and Milestones, plus Thomas’s originals, such as R.T. Special. The music is hard bop with bebop roots, with Thomas’s guitar shining through melodic, rapid-fire improvisations, and Monterose adding energetic saxophone parts. The rhythm section provides swinging support, creating a light yet vibrant atmosphere. The Jazz Workshop reissue, limited to 500 copies, is prized for its crystalline sound, capturing the warmth of Thomas’s guitar. “Guitar Groove!” is a vivid testament to Thomas’s mastery and place in jazz history.
René Thomas (February 25, 1927 – January 3, 1975) was a Belgian jazz guitarist, one of Europe’s most distinguished musicians of his era. Born in Liège, Belgium, he began playing guitar in his youth, inspired by Charlie Christian and Django Reinhardt. In the 1950s, Thomas moved to Paris, becoming a star of the European jazz scene before heading to the U.S., where he collaborated with artists like Sonny Rollins and Stan Getz. His style blended bebop virtuosity with a melodic, fluid delivery, setting him apart from American guitarists. Thomas returned to Europe in the 1960s, continuing to record and perform. His recordings, like Guitar Groove!, remain classics, highlighting his unique contribution to jazz.
TRACKLIST
Side One:
1. Spontaneous Effort 5:18
2. Ruby, My Dear 4:47
3. Like Someone in Love 5:52 (*)
4. M.T.C. 4:23
Side Two:
1. Milestones 5:49
2. How Long Has This Been Going On? 5:59 (#)
3. Green Street Scene 7:36
(*) No tenor on this selection
(#) No tenor or piano
Personnel:
René Thomas (guitar), JR. Monterose (tenor sax), Hod O’Brien (piano), Teddy Kotick (bass), Albert ‘Tootie’ Heath (drums).
Recorded at Nola Penthouse Studios, New York City, September 7 & 8, 1960
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