Mike Denny Trio - Live at Laurelwood (2023)

Guitarist Mike Denny, who passed away last year at the age of 64, was originally from Eugene, Oregon and played music from the age of 13. He worked in Oregon in the 1980s, spent time playing in New York City, Washington D.C., Denver, Paris and Barcelona, and ended up back in Oregon where he performed music and was an important educator. Along the way he led and co-led several albums including recording I’ll Think Of Something with bassist Greg Nathan in 2013.
Live At Laurelwood, which was cut in 2019, is arguably the guitarist’s finest showcase on records. Denny is featured leading a trio with bassist Tyler Abbott and drummer Ken Mastrogiovanni at a live performance in his native Eugene. He displays a melodic style, some boppish solos, and a relaxed approach. Among the songs that Denny uplifts are “How Insensitive,” “Tenderly,” a beautiful rendition of “A House Is Not A Home” and a soulful version of “The Shadow Of Your Smile.” The one uptempo tune is “Blow Out,” an original based on “Impressions” that at one point becomes a fiery guitar-drums duet. Abbott and Mastrogiovanni have their spots and are excellent in support throughout the nine selections. Mike Denny never became famous but, as is evident throughout Live At Laurelwood, he was a world class jazz guitarist.