Label: Liberty – LSS-14033
Format: Vinyl, LP, Stereo, Gatefold
Country: Canada
Released: 1965
Genre: Jazz
Style: Exotica, Easy Listening, Space-Age
Tracklist:
- Enchanted Island
- Pearly Shells
- Quiet Village
- Soft Sands
- Bali Ha’i
- Red Sails In The Sunset
- Off Shore
- Return To Paradise
- Beyond The Reef
- South Sea Trade Winds
- Flamingo
- Ebb Tide
Notes:
Released in 1965, “Return To Paradise” by The 50 Guitars Of Tommy Garrett is an album that beautifully blends easy listening and exotica. Produced by Tommy “Snuff” Garrett and arranged by Ernie Freeman, the album features lush, instrumental renditions of popular songs inspired by the Hawaiian Islands. Tracks like “Enchanted Island,” “Pearly Shells,” and “Bali Ha’i” transport listeners to a tropical paradise with their evocative melodies and intricate guitar work.
Tommy Garrett, known for his work as a producer and arranger, assembled a talented group of guitarists for this project, including the renowned session guitarist Tommy Tedesco. The album’s arrangements are characterized by their lush, orchestral sound, which was typical of the space-age bachelor pad music popular in the 1960s. The use of traditional Hawaiian instruments and rhythms adds an authentic touch to the album, making it a standout in the exotica genre.
“Return To Paradise” was released by Liberty Records and has since become a cherished piece among fans of vintage lounge music. Its blend of easy listening and exotic sounds has earned it a place in the hearts of collectors and enthusiasts of the genre. Tracks like “Quiet Village,” “Soft Sands,” and “Red Sails in the Sunset” continue to be celebrated for their innovative arrangements and timeless appeal.
In summary, The 50 Guitars Of Tommy Garrett’s “Return To Paradise” is a remarkable album that captures the essence of the exotica genre. Its rich, evocative soundscapes and masterful performances make it a must-listen for anyone interested in the musical trends of the mid-1960s. Whether you’re a fan of easy listening, pop, or exotica, this album offers a delightful journey to a musical paradise.
