bassist ever, and has influenced countless people over the decades, musicians and non-musicians alike. I have been aware of him for as long as I can remember; even before knowing any of his music, I have distinct memories of seeing re-releases of his signature bass in guitar magazines YEARS ago, and loving the worn look. I didn't really grow up with jazz, so it took me well into my twenties to really grow and appreciation for the genre, but once I did, I was hookd and artists like Jaco definitely were a big part of that. Jaco's "first" album was actually with some other legends, Pat Metheny being one that I also love, though his debut solo album is generally acknowledged to be his 1976 release, titled simply Jaco Pastorius. This album really showed off his incredible abilities as well as his signature fretless sound. His version of jazz standard "Donna Lee" is amazing, with the INSANE harmonics he is able to conjure up at speed. This tune is another favorite of mine, and a great example of his ability to use a fretless bass to the fullest. The tone he gets from the instrument is unmatched.