Wes Montgomery: Holland, 1965

Touring in the Netherlands in April 1965 with Clark Terry, guitarist Wes Montgomery was captured in a studio warming up Dutch musicians for a radio show recorded later on that day. The tunes they used to limber up were I Love Blues, Nica's Dream and End of a Love Affair. Fortunately, the Dutch cameramen were warming up as well.

When you view the session below, dig Montgomery's command on the instrument and swing from the opening notes on each song. It's impossible not to be hit right in the heart by each start, which instantly transfixes you. A footnote: This was recorded right in the middle of the Bumpin' session for Verve, the first half recorded before he departed for Europe and the second half completed upon his return.

Wait, there's more: If you dig Echoes of Indiana Avenue, the spectacular CD of Montgomery in 1957 and 1958 released by Resonance earlier this year (my post is here), you're in for a treat: Tomorrow (Saturday), radio journalist Chris Cowles will host a two-hour show devoted to the CD on Hartford's WRTC. 

The show will air from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. (EDT). Chris will interview on the air bassist Mingo Jones who was involved in some of the sessions with Montgomery; jazz photographer and historian Duncan Schiedt; Montgomery's son, Robert; and Zev Feldman, who produced the album. Tune in tomorrow from anywhere in the world on your computer by going here.