Bobby Broom Plays for Monk

Guitarist Bobby Broom, now a fixture on the Chicago scene, is as well-known for his periodic work as a member of many of Sonny Rollins' groups during the past two decades as he is for his own efforts as a leader and accomplished guitarist.

Broom, who can be seen and heard in Chicago quite regularly, has issued, of late, a series of very good recordings. The newest, "Bobby Broom Plays For Monk," was released this week and continues the string of satisfying discs he's issued. This is a date with his regular working trio: bassist Dennis Carroll and drummer Kobie Watkins.

Broom is both an extremely fluid soloist and someone steeped in the traditions of Wes Montgomery and early-era George Benson. He plays chunks of chords and simultaneous notes octaves apart.

It's a perfect fit here given how stylistic Monk and Montgomery could be. On this date Broom peels through a number of interpretations of the pianist's compositions, including "Ruby My Dear," "Work," "Rhythm-a-ning," "Lulu's Back in Town," "Beshma Swing" and the one and only "In Walked Bud."

I'm not sure "soothing" is the best word for these 10 tunes, but Broom really lays out a relaxed and authentic session from classic start to modern finish.