The concerto was written at the suggestion of the late Christopher Palmer and guitar virtuoso Christopher Parkening, whose name might be familiar after his lush playing perked up John Williams' otherwise somewhat unexciting Stepmom. What is especially nice about this piece is that it retains Bernstein's style familiar from his film music, but develops it in much more interesting and ultimately more satisfying ways. There is no really big theme in any of the movements and a more careful listen is required for a full appreciation of the structure of the music. Stylistically, his western scores would be the most strong precedent, although Bernstein cranks up the harmonic invention to give the whole endeavor a more modernistic feeling. Not that this is done at the expense of drama or excitement, so we are left with the best of both worlds. Parkening's guitar playing is of course exemplary and the London Symphony Orchestra give a bracing performance under Bernstein's baton.
Given the wealth of unreleased Bernstein concert music still out there, it could be seen as unfortunate that the rest of the album is by other composers. That being said, the Albéniz compliments Bernstein's own composition admirably, both sharing some (perhaps mildly clichéd) Spanish influences, although La Vega isn't quite as striking as Bernstein's. The Essay for Guitar by Jack Marshall isn't even performed by the same ensemble and is an archive recording. The writing reminds me slightly of John Williams' concert music at the time of his Flute and Violin Concertos, but is perhaps more approachable. Like the Albinéz, the style fits perfectly onto the album and rounds out proceedings with a flourish.
I acquired this album while writing my own guitar concerto and much of my research listening seemed to lean strongly toward Baroque music - Vivaldi, Bach and so on - so it's nice to hear the guitar in a more modern orchestral idiom. I don't expect mine will even approach any of these efforts in quality, but it does show the guitar as considerably more versatile than I would have previously considered. Bernstein's bold orchestral textures are carefully written around the segments where the guitar is most prominent since it doesn't quite have the dynamic range to compete with many other instruments. I personally find this style of concerto writing to be some of the most vivid since both soloist and orchestra are able to shine on more equal terms. A hugely impressive album and one that no Bernstein fan should be without, wonderful.
Rating ~ 
Total Time ~ 48:02