Earl Klugh
1976
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Earl Klugh's self-titled debut album, released in 1976, marked the beginning of his solo career after working with George Benson and others. The album showcases Klugh's signature acoustic guitar style, blending jazz, pop, and rhythm and blues influences. It features a mix of original compositions and instrumental covers of popular songs. The recording took place during January and February 1976 at Kendun Recorders in Burbank, CA, with horns and strings recorded at Record Plant in Los Angeles, CA.
The album includes notable musicians such as Louis Johnson on bass and Lee Ritenour on guitar. Dave Grusin played piano, synthesizer, and percussion, and also co-produced the album with Larry Rosen. The album demonstrates Klugh's talent for crafting memorable melodies and his development as a guitarist.
Recording Info
Recorded January-February 1976 at Kendun Recorders, Burbank, CA; Horns and strings recorded at Record Plant, Los Angeles, CA. Mixed and Mastered at Kendun Recorders, Burbank, CA. Remixed at Westlake Audio and Record Plant, Los Angeles, CA. Produced by Dave Grusin and Larry Rosen.
Track Highlights
- Las Manos de Fuego (Hands of Fire) (Dave Grusin)
- Could It Be I'm Falling in Love (Melvin Steals, Mervin Steals)
- Laughter in the Rain (Neil Sedaka, Phil Cody) — Instrumental cover showcasing Klugh's pop sensibilities
- Waltz for Debby (Bill Evans)
- The Shadow of Your Smile
Personnel
- Earl Klugh (Acoustic and Electric Guitars)
- Dave Grusin (Piano, Synthesizer, Percussion)
- Lee Ritenour (Electric Guitar)
- Charles Meeks (Bass Guitar)
- Louis Johnson (Bass)
- Harvey Mason (Drums, Percussion)
- Laudir de Oliveira (Percussion)
- Chuck Findley (Trumpet, Flugelhorn)
- Oscar Brashear (Trumpet, Flugelhorn)
- Garnett Brown (Trombone)
- Ray Pizzi (Soprano Saxophone)
- Pete Christlieb (Tenor Saxophone, Flute)
Significance
Earl Klugh's debut album was significant in establishing his unique sound and style as a leading acoustic guitarist in jazz. The album helped pave the way for the smooth jazz genre and solidified Klugh's place as one of the most imitated icons of the instrument.
Earl Klugh was only 15 years old when he made his first recording on Yusef Lateef's album *Suite 16*.
Track List
Apple Music
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