Scheduled to be released Oct. 4, Guitar Man features Benson serving up tracks performed solo as well as with a combo. Along with his trademarked jazz sound, the album showcases Benson exploring other sounds as well and includes renditions of the John Lennon/Paul McCartney song “I Want To Hold Your Hand,” Stevie Wonder’s “My Cherie Amour” and the Champs’ 1958 instrumental hit, “Tequila.”
To capture a spontaneous feel, Benson and the musicians accompanying him in the studio, including pianist Joe Sample, keyboardist and musical director David Garfield, drummer Harvey Mason and bassist Ben Williams, kept rehearsal time to a minimum to create an impromptu sensibility that approaches a live experience.
Benson’s October schedule begins with a show in Austin, Texas, at the Riverbend Centre Oct. 1. Other stops include St. Louis at the Blanche M. Touhill Performing Arts Center Oct. 2; Phoenix at Sage Court Amphitheater Oct. 14; Atlanta at Symphony Hall Oct. 16; New York City’s Town Hall Oct. 21; and Glenside, Pa., at Keswick Theatre Oct. 23.
Visit GeorgeBenson.com for more information. While you’re there, be sure to snag a free download of “Danny Boy” from Guitar Man.