In this, his first album, Bil gives us two songs and eleven guitar solos ranging from the delicate semi-classical style of ‘A Taste of Honey', most of which makes use of harmonic playing to a formidable creation called ‘Runaway Nun'. In between, meanwhile, some more familiar standards like ‘Autumn Leaves' and ‘One Note Samba' are given new arrangements making apparent Bil's highly personal brand of jazz playing.
Of the two songs, ‘Teeny Bop Blues' represents a light hearted view of life as seen through the binoculars of the drunken talent spotter, while ‘Speckled Hen', the only love-song on this album, is augmented by some fine soprano recorder work, the latter song sounding as if it should be a standard. Well, give it a year or two, you never know.....
Bil Fulton would like to thank all those who contributed to the sleeve notes.
Recorded at REL Records by REL Studios
Engineer: Neil Ross
Production: Fulton Ross
Released by REL Records © 1977
1. Tuxedo Junction
A version of the big band hit of the forties.
2. Hey Little Dog
A jaunty tune about a four legged Frankfurter.
3. A Taste of Honey
A
number made famous by the Beatles and subsequently arranged by Neil Munro who must surely be one of the finest jazz guitarists in Wardie.
4. Autumn Leaves
The famous standard with some extemporisations. What more can I say!
5. Speckled Hen
A tender song about Barbara who is timeless
6. Runaway Nun
A fast zippy number about a young lady of similar description who parted company, one might say with convention.
7. In a Shanty in Old Shanty Town
A dreamy jazz tune reflecting a nostalgic summer afternoon on the terrace.
8. Lazy Baker in the Sunshine
An old time hit which I have heard (and enjoyed) transcribed for banjo/ukele. This version isn't I hasten to add.
9. One Note Samba
The development section in this number will be new to any Jobin fans, but when the rhythm section is doing a gig on Adelaide Island, then I guess it's up to me to keep things moving.
10. Marching Song
Definitely a walking tune and a good pacer if the car is parked any distance away. If you're in town, it should last about two and half blocks.
11. Dindi
A beautiful tune which I first heard delivered as a slow ballad by Ray Warleigh
12. Teeny Bop Blues
A not so tender serenade to passers-by at the bus stop after closing time when the pavements are littered with half-eaten chips
13. Ivy Toccata
A fast finger pick mainly in 3+3+2/8 timing requiring a dozen or so fingers. The author of the first four bars told me I was welcome to use them; he also wrote the repeats.
