Search - Oscar Peterson :: Oscar's Ballads

Oscar Peterson's spotless, fiery technique can fool you. He's also a jazz pianist with a sensitive side. And on this disc, Telarc gathers some of his best ballad cuts and reveals just how versatile Peterson can be. In his hands, these original tunes are infused with grace, warmth, and just a hint of swing, and they're all worth hearing. "Harcourt Nights" gets a lush orchestral backing thanks to the Michel Legrand Strings. "If You Only Knew" features Peterson and Benny Green together, weaving long, lyrical piano lines, and "Nighttime" features the pianist at his most soft-hued. As usual, Peterson's lightening-fast fingers are astounding, as is his accompaniment (especially tracks featuring Roy Hargrove and Herb Ellis). All of these recordings have been previously released, but it's nice to have so many soulful and gorgeous ballads on one CD. A rare glimpse at Peterson's lesser-heard playing style. --Jason Verlinde