It’s Freddie Hubbard’s birthday today and while he’s not a Jazz Guitarist, he’s a wonderful musician who appreciates the Jazz Guitar sound and its players. Case in point is Freddie’s album Sky Dive featuring some very talented players, among them the legendary George Benson. I heard the title tune this morning on KCSM and was instantly reminded how great all those cats sounded way back in the seventies. Benson played some very hip lines over the changes and he played some stuff that I haven’t heard from him since. I’m definitely going to have to scout around for the vinyl version of that album on CTI Records. I could easily acquire the CD but for some reason I find I like listening to the original source. Meaning, if it was originally put out on vinyl, I wanna hear it on vinyl. But that’s just me. Benson’s playing also reminded of his work with Jimmy Smith on the kickin’ “Straight Ahead” album from the early eighties on the Electra Musician label. Once again George plays some mean guitar and should be in everyone’s CD or vinyl collection. If you already own these albums or end up buying them, let me know what you think. I’d love to hear your thoughts. Later all…