Unforgettable
The title of this recording is doubly significant. While the late guitarist's interpretation of Irving Gordon's immortal composition is certainly representative of this collection of standards, it's Joe Pass himself who must be considered unforgettable. A master of technique, Pass first gained prominence as an industrious studio musician in the early '60s. After years as a sideman with George Shearing, Benny Goodman, and Ella Fitzgerald, among others, Pass worked as a solo artist until his death in 1994. This batch of classics performed on the acoustic guitar was recorded in 1992 and displays the man's accomplished fingerpicking technique and strength as a soloist. From emotive interpretations of "Autumn Leaves" and "Moonlight in Vermont" to his bopping version of Monk's "'Round Midnight," this is timeless Pass.--Mitch Myers