European guitarist Rene’ Thomas isn’t exactly a household name in most jazz circles, but if you dig deep, your appreciation will grow. He’s got a sound and delivery similar to Jim Raney and Tal Farlow, and has graced bands and recordings lead by Stan Getz (such as Dynasty), Chet Baker and Sonny Rollins. He died too early at 47 back in 1975, so it’s understandable for him being under the radar.
Hopefully, this album him on two sessions will pique your interest. He’s caught in a 1958 session under the leadership of bopping pianist/composer Toshiko Akiyoshi, who brings Thomas together with a pre-Tonight Show’d Doc Severinson/tp, Nat Adderley/ct, Rolf Kuhn/cl-as, Bobby Jaspar/ts-bs-fl, John Drew/b and Bert Dahlander/dr. Thomas is glorious on “Broadway” and teams up well with the leader on” Swingin’ Till The Girls Come Home.” Having Jaspar on bari on “United Nations” is a bonus as well.
Thomas leads his own band in a 1960 studio recording with the impressive team of JR Montrose/ts, Tootie Heath/dr, Teddy Kotick/b and Hod O’Brien on a collection of standards and originals. Thomas is clean and clear as he veers like AJ Foyt on “Like Someone In Love” and glistens like polished brass on “How Long Has This Been Going On?”. Montrose, perpetually forgotten and underrated, is in muscular form, sizzling on “Spontaneous Effort” and flows like lava with Thomas on a wonderful “Ruby, My Dear” while bouncing with delight on “Milestones.” This album is gonna give you bragging rights for bringing his name up in a conversation.
Fresh Sound Records