Guitarist Barney Kessel built upon the tradition laid down by Charlie Christian, and during the 1940s and '50s he was one of the main exponents of bebop guitar, playing with such artists as Charlie Parker and Oscar Peterson, among others. After more than a decade ensconced in studio work, Kessel returned in the '70s to touring and recording as part of the Great Guitars trio. Kessel always played with tremendous feeling, and he is often cited by younger guitarists as a major influence.