Album Notes

Nate Najar is one of only few guitarists who play jazz on the classical guitar. Many guitar players emulate horn players with blistering single note runs, but Nate prefers the more orchestral approach afforded by the classical guitar. Contrapuntal lines, lush harmony, and a full swinging sound have come to be associated with his guitar work. Swinging jazz sounds, blues, and Brazilian styles are all at home under Nate's hands. Rick Anderson of the All Music Guide says it best:

"one of the most consistently interesting and enjoyable young guitarists on the jazz scene.... Highly recommended."

Nate has learned from some of the world's greatest guitarists including Frank Mullen, Jack Wilkins, Gene Bertoncini and Romero Lubambo.

Major jazz festivals and clubs such as Washington D.C.'s Blues Alley have featured Nate and his band. In addition to leading his own group, Nate can frequently be seen performing with Duke Ellington alumnus Buster Cooper.

This newest recording, "Christmas With The Nate Najar Trio" features Nate on Buscarino classical guitar, John Lamb on bass, Chuck Redd on drums and Mike MacArthur on tenor saxophone.

"Christmas With The Nate Najar Trio" has a vibe similar to Vince Guaraldi's classic "A Charlie Brown Christmas" with one very big difference- no piano. Nate's pianistic style on the classical guitar allows him to play full parts at once. And Vince Guaraldi has always been one of Nate's big influences, so it was only natural for that influence to carry over to the holiday album.