[Album Deep Dive] Barney Kessel - The Poll Winners (1957) (Ep. 103)

Often all we need to get ourselves out of a rut is a little perspective. In this podcast, I'll share three straightforward (and immediately applicable) tips to gain a broader perspective in your music and your life. Enjoy! Resources and Links: The Pinnacle Method JazzGuitarLessons.net Connect with us on social media: Facebook, YouTube, Instagram --- Available on RSS feed, YouTube Music, Spotify, and Apple. RSS:https://app.kajabi.com/podcasts/2147798591/feed YouTube Music:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdZzxzHaS5rzSO8zNtZmX-OSMWUgbWOu0 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/5tdsJWZihK0kZnzjfu0ocQ Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jazzguitarlessons-net-podcast/id981300420

In this (rather long) podcast here, we'll dwell heavily on the theory side: extensions on the II-V-I and other more philosophical implications to musical theory. Resources and Links: The Pinnacle Method JazzGuitarLessons.net Connect with us on social media: Facebook, YouTube, Instagram --- Available on RSS feed, YouTube Music, Spotify, and Apple. RSS:https://app.kajabi.com/podcasts/2147798591/feed YouTube Music:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdZzxzHaS5rzSO8zNtZmX-OSMWUgbWOu0 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/5tdsJWZihK0kZnzjfu0ocQ Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jazzguitarlessons-net-podcast/id981300420

In this episode, I sit down with Nick Mainella — jazz educator, saxophonist, and host of https://10minutejazzlesson.com/ — to explore the genius of Clark Terry and how his teaching philosophy can inspire modern jazz guitarists. Nick shares stories about Clark’s “doodle tonguing system,” his belief in learning by ear, and how playing with feel, phrasing, and swing can communicate more than any scale or theory ever could. For jazz guitar players, this conversation is a reminder to focus on melody, time, and articulation — to make your lines speak and your solos swing. Whether you’re practicing improvisation, learning standards, or trying to sound more authentic, Clark Terry’s approach (as explained by Nick) offers timeless lessons for developing a personal and expressive jazz sound. Resources and Links: The Pinnacle Method JazzGuitarLessons.net Connect with us on social media: Facebook, YouTube, Instagram --- Available on RSS feed, YouTube Music, Spotify, and Apple. RSS:https://app.kajabi.com/podcasts/2147798591/feed YouTube Music:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdZzxzHaS5rzSO8zNtZmX-OSMWUgbWOu0 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/5tdsJWZihK0kZnzjfu0ocQ Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jazzguitarlessons-net-podcast/id981300420

In this podcast, Jordan shares his story of playing with NYC legends, losing his ability to play after major surgery, and discovering a completely new way to approach the guitar. Instead of endless scales, arpeggios, and theory drills, Jordan reveals a direct path to sounding authentic, connecting with your ears, and playing music that actually feels like jazz. Along the way, he shares lessons from mentors like John Scofield, and Peter Bernstein, plus his own hard-earned insights from relearning the instrument from scratch. If you’ve ever felt stuck memorizing patterns but not sounding like the records… this can show you a fresh way forward. Resources and Links: The Pinnacle Method JazzGuitarLessons.net Connect with us on social media: Facebook, YouTube, Instagram --- Available on RSS feed, YouTube Music, Spotify, and Apple. RSS:https://app.kajabi.com/podcasts/2147798591/feed YouTube Music:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdZzxzHaS5rzSO8zNtZmX-OSMWUgbWOu0 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/5tdsJWZihK0kZnzjfu0ocQ Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jazzguitarlessons-net-podcast/id981300420

In this episode of Album Deep Dives, Marc examines two defining sides of John Scofield’s artistry through Flat Out (1988) and the live album EnRoute (2003). The discussion explores Scofield’s post-bop language, deep blues influence, R&B grooves, and his distinctive approach to tone, phrasing, and motivic development. Featuring insights into both studio and live contexts, this episode highlights why Scofield remains one of the most influential modern jazz guitarists. Resources and Links: The Pinnacle Method JazzGuitarLessons.net Connect with us on social media: Facebook, YouTube, Instagram --- Available on RSS feed, YouTube Music, Spotify, and Apple. RSS:https://app.kajabi.com/podcasts/2147798591/feed YouTube Music:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdZzxzHaS5rzSO8zNtZmX-OSMWUgbWOu0 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/5tdsJWZihK0kZnzjfu0ocQ Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jazzguitarlessons-net-podcast/id981300420

In this episode of Album Deep Dives, Nathan explores Barney Kessel’s 1957 trio classic The Poll Winners, featuring Ray Brown and Shelly Manne. The discussion highlights Kessel’s earthy blues-infused sound, bebop mastery, inventive comping, and the remarkable musical chemistry that made this supergroup recording a jazz guitar landmark. A must-listen for anyone interested in the roots of modern jazz guitar. Resources and Links: The Pinnacle Method JazzGuitarLessons.net Connect with us on social media: Facebook, YouTube, Instagram --- Available on RSS feed, YouTube Music, Spotify, and Apple. RSS:https://app.kajabi.com/podcasts/2147798591/feed YouTube Music:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdZzxzHaS5rzSO8zNtZmX-OSMWUgbWOu0 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/5tdsJWZihK0kZnzjfu0ocQ Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jazzguitarlessons-net-podcast/id981300420

In this episode of Album Deep Dives, let's explore Kenny Burrell’s iconic 1963 Blue Note release Midnight Blue. From blues-soaked lines and soulful grooves to classical-influenced solo guitar work, the episode highlights why Burrell became one of the defining voices of jazz guitar. A perfect listen for anyone wanting to understand the blend of blues, bebop, and elegance that shaped modern jazz guitar.   Resources and Links: The Pinnacle Method JazzGuitarLessons.net Connect with us on social media: Facebook, YouTube, Instagram --- Available on RSS feed, YouTube Music, Spotify, and Apple. RSS:https://app.kajabi.com/podcasts/2147798591/feed YouTube Music:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdZzxzHaS5rzSO8zNtZmX-OSMWUgbWOu0 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/5tdsJWZihK0kZnzjfu0ocQ Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jazzguitarlessons-net-podcast/id981300420

In this episode, Kevin asks Marc about the inspiration and creative process behind his original composition “The Time It Took.” The conversation expands into a deeper exploration of improvisation, listening, group interaction, and how musical ideas evolve inside real-world playing contexts. Marc shares the backstory of writing the tune, memories from early professional gigs, and how fast tempos, phrasing, and collective improv shape his approach to both composing and performing.   Resources and Links: The Pinnacle Method JazzGuitarLessons.net Connect with us on social media: Facebook, YouTube, Instagram --- Available on RSS feed, YouTube Music, Spotify, and Apple. RSS:https://app.kajabi.com/podcasts/2147798591/feed YouTube Music:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdZzxzHaS5rzSO8zNtZmX-OSMWUgbWOu0 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/5tdsJWZihK0kZnzjfu0ocQ Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jazzguitarlessons-net-podcast/id981300420

In this episode of Album Deep Dives, Nathan explores Ben Monder’s 1997 trio masterpiece Dust. From the ECM-influenced textures of “Sleep” to the dark counterpoint of “Silent Neighbors” and the cinematic “Late Green,” the episode highlights Monder’s harmonic depth, rhythmic complexity, and unique compositional voice. A perfect listen for jazz guitarists interested in modern guitar artistry and advanced musical storytelling.   Resources and Links: The Pinnacle Method JazzGuitarLessons.net Connect with us on social media: Facebook, YouTube, Instagram --- Available on RSS feed, YouTube Music, Spotify, and Apple. RSS:https://app.kajabi.com/podcasts/2147798591/feed YouTube Music:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdZzxzHaS5rzSO8zNtZmX-OSMWUgbWOu0 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/5tdsJWZihK0kZnzjfu0ocQ Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jazzguitarlessons-net-podcast/id981300420

In this episode of Album Deep Dives, Marc explores Grant Green’s debut record Grant’s First Stand (1961), highlighting the guitarist’s blues-driven style, bebop influence, and remarkable time feel. You’ll learn about Green’s early life, his rise through Blue Note Records, and key musical moments from the album’s standout tracks. A short but rich introduction to one of jazz guitar’s most soulful voices.   Resources and Links: The Pinnacle Method JazzGuitarLessons.net Connect with us on social media: Facebook, YouTube, Instagram --- Available on RSS feed, YouTube Music, Spotify, and Apple. RSS:https://app.kajabi.com/podcasts/2147798591/feed YouTube Music:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdZzxzHaS5rzSO8zNtZmX-OSMWUgbWOu0 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/5tdsJWZihK0kZnzjfu0ocQ Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jazzguitarlessons-net-podcast/id981300420