Hallmark Sessions

by Scott YanowHallmark Sessions is an extraordinary release. The previously unreleased music (which sat unheard for over 41 years) was recorded in 1961 when Lenny Breau was 20 and nearly seven years before he made his first important recording. The guitarist was already a brilliant player as he shows throughout the set of seven jazz, two country, and four flamenco tunes (plus six alternate takes placed at the end of this disc). With tasteful backing by bassist Rick Danko and drummer Levon Helm, Breau plays beautiful chords (sounding a little like Johnny Smith in spots) and inventive single-note lines. It is remarkable that this music was not released until 2003, but a happy event that it was finally put out. This is a must for Breau fans and an important release for all jazz guitar lovers.