Wes Montgomery - California Dreaming

 

Wes Montgomery — California Dreaming

Acoustic Sounds Series reissues from Verve/Universal Music Enterprises!

Monthly releases highlighting the world's most historic and best jazz records!

Mastered by Matthew Lutthans at The Mastering Lab from the original analog tapes

180-gram LPs pressed at Quality Record Pressings!

Stoughton Printing gatefold old-style tip-on jackets

Series supervised by Chad Kassem CEO of Acoustic Sounds

Released in 1967, California Dreaming was Wes Montgomery's last album for Verve (other than an exciting collaboration with Jimmy Smith). This lush orchestral masterpiece paired Montgomery's warm, instantly recognizable guitar sound with sophisticated arrangements by acclaimed arranger Don Sebesky, creating a crossover jazz classic that captivated audiences.

Arranged and conducted by Don Sebesky, the album surrounds Montgomery's fluid guitar with sweeping strings and a stellar supporting cast that includes pianist Herbie Hancock and percussionist Ray Barretto. Rather than merely covering the hits of the day, Montgomery reinvents them, extracting fresh emotion and sophistication from songs like the sunshine-soaked title track, the soulful "Sunny," and the Beatles' "Yesterday."

The result was a commercial and artistic triumph. California Dreaming reached No. 1 on the Billboard Jazz Albums chart and crossed over to No. 4 on the R&B chart, further cementing Montgomery's status as one of the most beloved and influential guitarists of his era.

At the peak of his popularity, the guitarist unexpectedly died of a heart attack just a year later on June 15, 1968, at the age of 45. That loss only deepens the poignancy of California Dreaming — a radiant album that showcases an artist who could make even familiar songs sound entirely his own. 

Side A

1. California Dreamin'

2. Sun Down

3. Oh You Crazy Moon

4. More, More Amor

5. Without You

Side B

1. Winds Of Barcelona

2. Sunny

3. Green Peppers

4. Mr. Walker

5. South Of The Border (Down Mexico Way)

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