Metheney's got a great duo album with Jim Hall, too.

Also, if you like symphonic lushness, check out his soundtrack to the movie "Map of the World" (great movie, too --- although a bit dark!). GORGEOUS soundtrack, beautifully performed.

Hi Matt. I'm also a student of the jazz guitar. I'm really into many of the guitarists already mentioned, especially Jim Hall and Pat Martino. I've seen them both live and they were fantastic experiences. Also check out Bill Frisell, Mike Stern, and Mick Goodrick. Goodrick's recordings are somewhat obscure compared to the others, but well worth the time and effort to track them down. "In Passing" is his masterpiece and is available on itunes. It's one of those albums that features telepathic musicality that really transcends the instruments. Mick Goodricks' instruction books are worth their weight in gold as well. "The Advancing Guitarist" breaks down many conceptual barriers and establishes a mental framework for understanding and approaching the fretboard, and the "Almanac of Guitar Voiceleading" gives you lots of the raw data to work with in a systematic way.

If you want to hear Jim Hall at his best, track down Paul Desmonds' solo recordings after he left the Dave Brubeck Group. Desmond never worked with a pianist again after Brubeck, and insted used Jim Hall and Canadian guitarist Ed Bickert for the harmonic instruments in his quartets. The Ed Bickert albums are awesome as well. Jim Hall also played on Sonny Rollins' "The Bridge" album, which is required listening.

good luck!

Brian, thanks for the info. I have "Jim Hall Live", but none of the other albums mentioned. I think I might pick up Sonny Rollins' "The Bridge". I heard from several people that it was good.