Portraits

For his fifth studio album Martin Taylor, together with Nashville legend Chet Atkins, give a masterclass in virtuosic guitar playing. Originally released in 1996, 'Portraits' has been re-issued as part of Linns ECHO series which offers a second chance to enjoy the best of the labels award-winning catalogue. 'Portraits' was recorded in Nashville, Hamburg and Scotland and, although primarily a solo album, it provided an opportunity for Martin to work once again with two old friends, producer David Hungate and the legendary guitar picker Chet Atkins. Atkins guests on several tracks including My Funny Valentine and The Beatles Here, There And Everywhere. Atkins describes Martin Taylor as one of the greatest and most impressive guitar players in the world stating I just love his playing. This association has been quite an honour for me. Taylor also excels in the solo numbers with a highly impressive version of Gershwins I Got Rhythm that defies belief. His enviable technique creates a sizzling Ol Man River and he applies a gentle melodic touch to 'I Remember Clifford.' Taylors inimitable style, honed across five decades, has seen him recognized as the worlds foremost exponent of solo jazz guitar. Taylor possesses an easy virtuosity that has earned him global acclaim from fellow musicians, fans and critics alike. Taylor is a multi-award winning guitarist whom Acoustic Guitar magazine calls THE acoustic guitarist of his generation. Taylor has enjoyed a remarkable musical career with more than 100 recordings to his credit and a record 14 British Jazz Awards as a guitarist. He has collaborated Jeff Beck, Bill Wyman, Chet Atkins, Stéphane Grappelli, George Harrison, Hugh Laurie and Jamie Cullum.