Oscar Peterson For Lovers

Performer: Oscar Peterson
Producer: Jim Davis; Bob Shad; Norman Granz; Jack Tracy; Ken Druker (Compilation)
Distributor: Universal Distribution

Notes: Personnel: Oscar Peterson (vocals, piano); Bill Henderson (vocals); Herb Ellis (guitar); Clark Terry (flugelhorn); Milt Jackson (vibraphone); Ray Brown (bass instrument); Ed Thigpen (drums). Liner Note Author: Al Young. Oscar Peterson has long wowed listeners with fast tempos, hot licks, and amazing technique. However, this Verve compilation highlights the softer side of the great pianist, as on Duke Ellington's "Prelude to a Kiss." Peterson's version of this classic tune is elegant and inviting--the austere melody is allowed to breathe, and Peterson's playing is understated and dreamy throughout. The soft brushwork of drummer Ed Thigpen also adds nice color to this selection. Other standout tracks include George Gershwin's "I've Got a Crush on You," a suitably romantic song that features the smoky voice of Bill Henderson. Again, Peterson takes a restrained approach to this tune, allowing Gershwin's beautiful melody to speak for itself. On "Sweet Lorraine," Peterson pays tribute to Nat "King" Cole by singing one of the crooner's most popular tunes himself. Peterson has an impressive voice, too; in fact, he mimics Cole quite well. Nonetheless, it's obviously Peterson's piano playing that stands out. Indeed, all 11 tracks display true warmth and sensitivity.

Among the most prodigiously recorded artists in all of jazz, pianist Oscar Peterson early on forged a strong relationship with producer Norman Granz, and since the 1950s he has been one of the cornerstones of Granz's labels (Verve, Pablo). Peterson has primarily worked in a trio setting, alternately with guitar & bass or bass & drums, though he has also performed solo, with larger groups, and with a full orchestra. Possessing dazzling technique, Peterson always delivers the musical goods in a powerfully swinging style. Peterson passed away December 23, 2007 at the age of 82.

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