Virtuoso #3

This CD reissue in Joe Pass’ “Virtuoso” series differs from the others in that the unaccompanied guitarist performs a dozen originals rather than standards. Pass, who previously had mostly composed blues-oriented pieces, proves to be a surprisingly effective composer, even if his song titles (which include “Sevenths,” “Ninths,” “Dissonance #1″ and “Dissonance #2″) are not too inspired. There are more ballads than usual in a Pass solo showcase, but there is enough variety to hold one’s interest, even if none of these pieces (which includes one called “Paco DeLucia”) caught on. – Scott Yanow