Jim Hall's "By Arrangement" is a captivating journey into the world of cool jazz, released on September 29, 1998, under the Telarc label. This album, recorded and mixed in New York City, showcases Jim Hall's masterful guitar work alongside the talents of Pat Metheny on guitar and Terry Clarke on drums, accompanied by the lush strings of Plus Strings New York. With a runtime of just over an hour, the album features nine meticulously crafted tracks, each offering a unique blend of cool, post-bop, and guitar jazz styles.
The album opens with "Django," a tribute to the legendary Django Reinhardt, and continues with a rendition of "Waltz for Debby," a classic composed by Bill Evans. Other highlights include "Ruby My Dear," "Goodbye," and "Art Song," each demonstrating Jim Hall's signature elegant and introspective playing style. The album also features original compositions like "October Song" and "Wendy," adding a personal touch to the collection.
"By Arrangement" is a testament to Jim Hall's enduring influence in the jazz world, offering both longtime fans and newcomers a rich and rewarding listening experience. The album's production quality is top-notch, with recordings taking place at the renowned Clinton Recording Studio A in New York City and mixing at Sony Music Studios. Whether you're a jazz aficionado or simply appreciate beautiful music, "By Arrangement" is sure to delight.
