Jazz enthusiasts are in for a treat this November with the remastered and extended reissue of Acoustic Guitar Duets, a celebrated collaboration between two of jazz guitar’s finest, Louis Stewart and Martin Taylor. Originally recorded in Dublin’s Trend Studios in 1985 and first released in 1986, this new version, courtesy of Livia Records, is set for release on November 8, 2024. The reissue promises enhanced sound quality, an additional track, and a beautifully crafted 16-page booklet containing new photographs and expanded sleeve notes.
A Historic Collaboration
The roots of Acoustic Guitar Duets can be traced back to the early 1980s, when Martin Taylor toured with legendary violinist Stephane Grappelli. Louis Stewart, already a well-established guitarist, joined the tour in the mid-1980s, and the two quickly formed a dynamic duo. Their shared understanding of jazz standards, bebop classics, and even traditional folk tunes led to the creation of this intimate studio session, capturing their fluid interplay and effortless musicianship.
The Reissue: Remastered and Extended
To preserve the essence of this timeless recording nearly 40 years later, the original one-inch studio and master quarter-inch tapes were meticulously digitized. Remarkably, the tapes survived in excellent condition, allowing for an additional track, an alternate version of Stompin’ at the Savoy, to be included in the new release. Sean Mac Erlaine handled the remixing and mastering, ensuring that the album’s sound is crisper and more vivid than ever before.
Guitar Giants: Stewart and Taylor
Louis Stewart, often regarded as one of the world’s greatest jazz guitarists, had already built a distinguished career before this collaboration, having toured and recorded with icons like Benny Goodman, George Shearing, and Ronnie Scott. Known for his impeccable technique and deep musicality, Stewart let his guitar do the talking throughout his career, inspiring generations of guitarists worldwide. His collaborations, especially with the George Shearing Trio, remain some of the most significant jazz recordings to this day.
Martin Taylor, equally lauded for his contributions to jazz, has earned a host of accolades, including 14 British Jazz Awards and an MBE. His collaborations span genres and include names like Jeff Beck, Chet Atkins, and Jamie Cullum. A guitarist of extraordinary sensitivity and virtuosity, Taylor’s work with Grappelli and his solo career cemented his reputation as one of Europe’s finest jazz guitarists.
Livia Records: Reviving Irish Jazz Heritage
Livia Records, founded by Dublin arts polymath Gerald Davis in 1977, was Ireland’s first jazz label. Initially created to record Louis Stewart, the label went on to produce several iconic jazz albums, including Out On His Own (1977) and Drums Together (1979). After a period of dormancy following Davis’ passing in 2005, the label was reactivated in 2022 by jazz aficionado Dermot Rogers, who has since overseen the reissue of several key recordings from Stewart’s illustrious career. Acoustic Guitar Duets is the latest gem in this series, reminding us of the vital contributions of Irish jazz to the global music landscape.
As jazz guitar continues to inspire new generations of musicians, this reissue offers a glimpse into a moment of pure musical dialogue between two masters. Fans of Louis Stewart, Martin Taylor, and guitar music alike will not want to miss this re-release of Acoustic Guitar Duets.
Acoustic Guitar Duets will be available on CD and as a digital download on November 8, 2024.
Pre-order your copy now from Livia Records.
