Wes Montgomery – California Dreaming LP

Wes Montgomery – California Dreaming LP

Jazz • Soul Jazz • Instrumental • Classic 1966 Album • LP

Available at Bennies Fifties and the online Fifties Store

California Dreaming is a classic jazz album by legendary American guitarist Wes Montgomery, originally released in 1966 on Verve Records. The album combines Montgomery's unmistakable guitar style with lush orchestral arrangements and memorable melodies from the jazz and popular music of the 1960s.

Widely regarded as one of the most influential jazz guitarists of all time, Montgomery developed a distinctive sound by playing with his thumb rather than a pick. His warm tone, fluid improvisations and signature octave technique helped shape the sound of modern jazz guitar.

On California Dreaming, Montgomery explores a collection of melodic instrumental performances. The title track, originally made famous by The Mamas & The Papas, receives an elegant jazz interpretation, while Sunny, Winds Of Barcelona and More, More, Amor showcase his ability to transform familiar melodies into sophisticated instrumental arrangements.

Produced by Creed Taylor and featuring arrangements by Don Sebesky, the album brings together an impressive group of musicians, including Herbie Hancock, Richard Davis, Bucky Pizzarelli, Ray Barretto and Grady Tate.

The result is a warm, atmospheric recording that blends jazz, soul and orchestral pop. Montgomery's expressive guitar playing remains at the centre of the music, supported by rich arrangements and a relaxed, timeless groove.

California Dreaming is an excellent introduction to the more melodic side of Wes Montgomery's music and an essential album for fans of classic jazz guitar and instrumental music.

Tracklist

Side A

California Dreaming

Sun Down

Oh You Crazy Moon

More, More, Amor

Without You

Side B

Winds Of Barcelona

Sunny

Green Peppers

Mr. Walker

South Of The Border (Down Mexico Way)

Specifications

Artist: Wes Montgomery

Title: California Dreaming

Format: LP

Number of records: 1

Number of tracks: 10

Original album year: 1966

Label: Verve Records

Genre: Jazz / Soul Jazz / Easy Listening

Instrument: Guitar

Producer: Creed Taylor

Arrangements: Don Sebesky

Recorded: September 1966, Van Gelder Studio, New Jersey

Featuring: Herbie Hancock, Richard Davis, Bucky Pizzarelli, Ray Barretto and Grady Tate

Highlights

Classic jazz album by Wes Montgomery

Featuring California Dreaming and Sunny

A beautiful blend of jazz guitar, soul and orchestral arrangements

Produced by Creed Taylor

Arranged by Don Sebesky

Featuring musicians including Herbie Hancock

Montgomery's distinctive warm guitar tone

A timeless recording for fans of 1960s jazz