Years Apart

http://www.renaud-bray.com

http://www.renaud-bray.com

*** Résumé en anglais seulement *** Martin Taylors second recording with his Spirit of Django band features a star-studded guest list including the legendary violinist Stéphane Grappelli, plus Britains leading jazz vocalist Claire Martin and pianist Brian Kellock. Originally released in 1996, 'Years Apart' has been re-issued as part of Linns ECHO series which offers a second chance to enjoy the best of the labels award-winning catalogue. Following the success of the bands debut, 'Réunion', 'Years Apart' was also released to critical acclaim and public popularity; it won two British Jazz Award categories: Best Guitar and Best Small Group. Taylor and Grappellis mutual admiration was sparked when, aged 23, the youthful prodigy joined the jazz stalwarts regular touring band; their shared virtuosity and verve drew them together. Inventive with a Gypsy flavour throughout, highlights include the easygoing ballad Going Home Again and the well-crafted Hi Lily, Hi Lo, featuring Claire Martin - a piece rarely heard in a jazz setting. Grappelli sums up the appeal of Years Apart: Martin has managed to capture the true spirit of Django, yet do it in his own style. Taylors inimitable style, honed across five decades, has seen him recognized as the worlds foremost exponent of solo jazz guitar. Taylor possesses an easy virtuosity that has earned him global acclaim from fellow musicians, fans and critics alike. Taylor is a multi-award winning guitarist whom Acoustic Guitar magazine calls THE acoustic guitarist of his generation. Taylor has enjoyed a remarkable musical career with more than 100 recordings to his credit and a record 14 British Jazz Awards as a guitarist. He has collaborated Jeff Beck, Bill Wyman, Chet Atkins, Stéphane Grappelli, George Harrison, Hugh Laurie and Jamie Cullum.