I think of some of the guys mentioned as fusion guitarists and some as jazz guys, some more pop.
It really is difficult, if not impossible, to pick a best but my favorite has to be Wes Montgomery although I would leave behind some of his orchestrated, commercial "jazz for the masses" albums. The one with the cigarette butts on the cover comes to mind.
Metheny has the ability to be either a jazz guy or a fusion guy as he chooses which is very nice. Writes a lot of his own stuff too, just a very talented guy. I'd give him the runner-up tiara.
A major YMMV on this one, I'm sure everyone has their own favorites.
BTW: In the last few years I've seen Coryell, Metheny, McLaughlin, Martino and most recently Mike Stern, all very enjoyable.
It really is difficult, if not impossible, to pick a best but my favorite has to be Wes Montgomery although I would leave behind some of his orchestrated, commercial "jazz for the masses" albums. The one with the cigarette butts on the cover comes to mind.
Metheny has the ability to be either a jazz guy or a fusion guy as he chooses which is very nice. Writes a lot of his own stuff too, just a very talented guy. I'd give him the runner-up tiara.
A major YMMV on this one, I'm sure everyone has their own favorites.
BTW: In the last few years I've seen Coryell, Metheny, McLaughlin, Martino and most recently Mike Stern, all very enjoyable.