In Awe Of Pat Martino

I first heard Pat Martino during a party at a friend's apartment in 1975. I walked into their room and became transfixed by some of the most articulate post-bop guitar playing. Clearly under the spell of Wes Montgomery but already developing a new voice. The album was called, "Pat Martino - Live!" and the tune was "Sunny". What Pat Martino accomplished on that tune is reputation making. Relying more on instinct than "taught" methods of improvisation he takes chorus after chorus. Just when you think he has nothing more to say, he takes it to another level, again and again. He has become one of a handful of musicians whose albums I buy immediately upon hearing they are released. His latest effort, "undeniable: Live At Blues Alley" is a return to the in your face organ based groups with which he cut his chops, and is well, "undeniable". His talents as a guitarist and composer extraordinaire are enough in and of themselves. What makes his story so compelling for me is in 1980 he underwent major surgery to address a brain aneurysm that almost took his life. As a result of the operation he experience selective amnesia, forgetting much of his playing technique and large parts of his musical experiences. Through intensive rehab, the help of friends, and listening to his records he learned how to play again. How grateful we are to have him back. I consider Pat Martino a National Treasure, a true bearer of the torch who shows no signs of slowing down any time soon. Thank you for all the great work to date Pat and wishing you many more creative and fulfilling years to come!