2 LPs ON 1 CD

In 1960, Belgian guitarist René Thomas (1926-1975) had his much-anticipated leader debut in the US with the album “Guitar Groove”. He had appeared on record before, on Toshiko Akiyoshi’s “United Notions” (included here as a bonus) and on Sonny Rollins’ “Big Brass”, but “Guitar Groove” was a more informal encounter. It showcases René at great length, establishing him as one of the most fluent and articulate guitarists in jazz.

PERSONNEL:

[1-7] from RENÉ THOMAS - GUITAR GROOVE (Jazzland JLP 927)

J.R. MONTEROSE, tenor sax, except #3 & 6
RENÉ THOMAS, guitar
HOD 0'BRIEN, piano, except #6
TEDDY KOTICK, bass
ALBERT "TOOTIE" HEATH, drums

[8-15] from TOSHIKO AKIYOSHI: UNITED NOTIONS (MGM MM 2087)

DOC SVERINSEN, trumpet on #1-3 & 5
NAT ADDERLEY, cornet on #4, 6 & 7
ROLF KUHN, clarinet, alto sax
BOBBY JASPAR, tenor & baritone sax, flute
TOSHIKO AKIYOSHI, piano
RENÉ THOMAS, guitar
JOHN DREW, bass
BERT DAHLANDER, drums

Recorded at Beltone Studios, New York City, June 13, 1958.

TRACKS:

01. Spontaneous Effort
02. Ruby, My Dear
03. Like Someone in Love
04. M.T.C.  
05. Milestones
06. How Long Has this Been Going On?
07. Green Street Scene
08. Introduction
09. Broadway
10. Sukiyaki
11. Swingin’ Till the Girls Come Home
12. United Notions
13. Civilized Folk
14. Strike Up the Band
15. Jane