Spellbinder (1966)

"Szabo hit the jazz scene once it was on its way out, playing an instrument that many were picking up to play rock instead jazz. Nevertheless, Szabo was one of many European imports who brazenly hit the scene armed with American chops peppered with a foreign sensibility. Everything seemed to go into his style, from the blues, to jazz, to Django, even rock. This, his second album as a leader, is an added bonus because it features Szabo in a sparse quartet accompanied by just bass, drums, and percussion. Thus Szabo has the spotlight and showcases nifty chops with a little bit of an edge. While his choice of material isnt always on, the playing always is, especially on the songs he wrote himself, which percolate with unique chops and catchy melodies. Szabo was never quite as interesting later on as he was on here: after this he began to surround himself with several players on records focused more on an ensemble sound. For those who like no-frills jazz guitar, "Spellbinder" will be a treat." (All About Jazz)