Change of Heart

by Ken DrydenMartin Taylor's star rose considerably during the 1990s with a flurry of recording activity as a leader, especially dates such this one from the series he did for the Scottish label Linn. With a rhythm section of pianist David Newton, bassist Brian Shiels, and drummer John Rae, the guitarist's program is wide-ranging and has some surprises. Taylor wrote a pair of originals: The opener, "73 Berkeley Street," at first gives the impression of being a groove tune until the quartet launches into a brisk bop setting, and his "Angel's Camp" has a rhythm & blues flavor with a touch of gospel. Country great Eddy Arnold's "You Don't Know Me" has been covered by a few jazz musicians, but Taylor's bluesy guitar and Newton's soulful piano make this extended performance a treat. Taylor overdubbed a second guitar on his otherwise unaccompanied treatment of Ike Isaacs' snappy "After Hours," and he's truly solo on a soft lyrical take of Hoagy Carmichael's timeless "I Get Along Without You Very Well." This recommended CD is well worth acquiring.