Customer Reviews

Oscar Peterson Plays The George Gershwin Songbook

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Anyone who loves jazz will not miss Oscar Peterson in his/her jazz vocabulary. An extraordinary pianist known for his improvisation and distinctive style, Mr. Peterson is one of the greatest jazz icons who has recorded and performed myriads of the best melodies of all-time, most notably the compositions of a musical genius, George Gershwin, who had endless capabilities of composing melodious tunes that are so pleasing to the ears.

This remarkable CD consists of some of the most-loved Gershwin tunes. The last half were recorded in 1952 backed by Peterson's long-time collaborators and two of the best musicians in the jazz scene, Ray Brown and Barney Kessel. The the first twelve were recorded in 1959 with Ray Brown and Ed Thigpen. There are two equally outstanding versions of "Love Walked In" (tracks 3 & 24), "It Ain't Necessarily So" (tracks 1 & 15), "I Was Doing All Right" (tracks 4 & 19), "A Foggy Day" (tracks 5 & 23), "Lady Be Good" (tracks 6 & 21) and "The Man I Love" (tracks 2 & 13).

My favorites? These are all lively performances, but my choices include "A Foggy Day," "Love Walked In," "I've Got A Crush On You," "Love Is Here To Stay," "Nice Work If You Can Get It," "The Man I Love" and " 'S Wonderful."

This is one great CD to own. I listen to it when I'm in a bubbly mood. I'm pretty sure that you will enjoy listening to it as much as I do. It's more than an hour of listening pleasure not only for Gershwin and Peterson aficionados, but also for anyone who appreciates lively and vibrant piano music.

Wholeheartedly recommended!

Oscar Peterson + George Gershwin. What a combination! Peterson and his veteran trio sound brilliant on this gorgeous disc. My wife, a recent jazz fan, loves this disc. It has a bouyant, ebulient, feel to it while simultaneously being an essential after hours recording. I have to give props to bassist Ray Brown who just kicks a$$ here. Peterson often sounds restrained here, which is a bit different, yet he is no less inspired or fiery. As for the songs, well, its Gershwin. What more do you need to know?

Essential.

The 1st 12 songs were the ones actually released on the original album. A Foggy Day when Oscar hits the bridge (Middle Part) where he plays the melody so graciously almost angelic to a point with Ray Brown walking his distinct bass lines the song mezmorizes you. You'll keep playing it over and over. Many of the 1st 12 songs are like that. I believe the trio's interpretation of melody was at its zenith when it recorded this album. Can Jazz be a thing of beauty and grace? This album says so.

This is a powerful but mellow recording. An organically and yet mindfull playing. I could say that listening to 'It ain't necessarily so' it would be enough, but I'm glad to realise that there's so much more to find in this album. It's definitely beautiful.

This is great listening. From a non-Peterson fan, I think I'm hooked!

I love Gershwin and I love Oscar Peterson so what more could I ask. Well, actually what I would have liked would have been if Mr Peterson could have expanded his interpretation of the tunes. That would have been even more wonderful. Instead of say, 3 minutes, to a minute or so longer - perfect. However, in the circumstances, I just repeat my first sentence.

This is an outstanding CD that I can't stop playing. Great background music for a party! Music that never goes out of style!

it seems like the perfect balance of pathos and restraint, together with an excellent taste-listen to his summertime;otherworldly

These are great interpretations of Gershwin's standard. They were originally destined to a wider audience and may lack some subtleties of Peterson true style. Jazz newcomers should really try it.