George Benson was only 21 when, on May 1, 1964, he recorded his first album as a leader, The New Boss Guitar of George Benson. At that point, the guitarist had yet to become a huge name in jazz, although many of those who knew him for his work with
Jack McDuff's group (which he joined in 1962) agreed that he showed great potential.
Benson still had some growing to do in 1964, but even so, this is an impressive debut. The guitarist had developed a distinctive, recognizable sound on his instrument, and he plays with both feeling and technique on five
Benson originals (including the sly "Shadow Dancers," the exuberant "Rock-A-Bye," and the earthy blues "I Don't Know") as well as interpretations of "Easy Living" and "Will You Still Be Mine."
Benson, of course, had an insightful teacher in
McDuff, who plays both organ and piano on this hard bop/soul-jazz date. Tenor saxophonist
Red Holloway, another member of
McDuff's early-'60s group, is also on board, as are bassist
Ronnie Boykins and drummer
Montego Joe. In 1964,
Benson's best work was yet to come; nonetheless, this album is historically important as well as rewarding. ~ Alex Henderson