Grant Green

Considered one of the most under-rated jazz guitarists, it is great to see Grant Green being acknowledged more and more as a giant on his instrument. Recording extensively for Blue Note, his albums were dominated by a swinging hard bop style, with insistent repeated notes and a talent for extended solos. But even early on, Green’s LPs included Latin-influenced pieces and showed a fondness for gospel tunes.

Later, Green embraced a more driving, soul jazz style, gaining popularity in clubs (where several of his 70s performances were recorded). He even did a soundtrack album, The Final Comedown. The irony of that title will not be lost on fans who know of the artist’s struggles with drug addiction, though most will focus on his legacy of funky, fluid jazz guitar.