What makes Far Wes by Wes Montgomery notable?

Far Wes received critical acclaim for its innovative arrangements and Montgomery's virtuosity, contributing to his rise in popularity during the late 1950s. The album is often cited as influential among jazz guitarists and has been recognized for its impact on subsequent generations of musicians. Released in 1958, Far Wes marks Wes Montgomery's third album, solidifying his reputation as a leading figure in jazz guitar. Following the success of his earlier works, this album showcases his unique style and improvisational skills, placing him firmly within the burgeoning hard bop movement.

Far Wes works well if you're into long, immersive listening sessions, dynamic emotional journeys and layered, dense sonic textures.

How many songs are on Far Wes?

Far Wes has 11 tracks, running approximately 52 minutes.

Far Wes

Wes Montgomery · 1958

52 min · 11 tracks · jazz

A vibrant blend of intricate guitar melodies and rich jazz harmonies that epitomizes the hard bop era.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Far Wes — The title track features Montgomery's signature guitar tone and intricate phrasing, setting a high standard for the album's overall sound.
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Summertime — This rendition of the classic showcases Montgomery's ability to reinterpret familiar standards with fresh melodic embellishments and rhythmic complexity.
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Old Folks — Montgomery's emotive playing on this track highlights his skill in blending lyrical expression with complex jazz improvisation.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

Instrumental

70 /100

Alpine

Higher than 94% of albums we've rated

Far Wes showcases intricate guitar work and innovative arrangements, solidifying Montgomery's unique voice in jazz.

What we noticed

The album features intricate guitar solos that often weave in and out of the rhythm section, creating a dynamic interplay.
Several pieces include extended solos that build tension before resolving, particularly evident in 'Hymn for Carl' and 'Falling in Love With Love'.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 7/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

long, immersive listening sessions
dynamic emotional journeys
layered, dense sonic textures
atmospheric background focus

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1958, Far Wes marks Wes Montgomery's third album, solidifying his reputation as a leading figure in jazz guitar. Following the success of his earlier works, this album showcases his unique style and improvisational skills, placing him firmly within the burgeoning hard bop movement.
Stylistic neighbors: George Benson· Pat Metheny· Jim Hall

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Far Wes 5:54
2 Leila 3:30
3 Old Folks 6:38
4 Wes' Tune 4:11
5 Hymn for Carl 4:37
6 Montgomeryland Funk 4:03
7 Stompin' at the Savoy 4:24
8 Monk's Shop 3:58
9 Summertime 4:53
10 Falling in Love With Love 6:16
11 Renie 3:32

What to play next

Listen next

The Wes Montgomery Trio

1959

Go back to

Fingerpickin'

1958

Full Wes Montgomery discography Artists like Wes Montgomery

hard bop jazz fusion smooth jazz

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata