Oscar Peterson - Exclusively For My friends

Travelin' On

On the final volume of the Exclusively For My Friends series, Oscar Peterson and his colleagues Sam Jones (b) and Bob Durham (dr) again achieve very diverse highlights. The exuberant and driving title track can‘t deny its Gospel roots, and is ­contrasted with the simple yet profound ballad, „Emily“. On the Jobim composition „Quiet Nights“ (original title ­„Corcovado“), the trio demonstrate the levels of finesse they are capable of reaching when adapting bossa nova. With a quick swinging lightness, this otherwise dreamy number undergoes an amazing metamorphosis here. By selecting „Sax No End“, Peterson bows down before European jazz. The composition is by the Belgian big band leader Francy Boland, and it is really set alight here by Peterson‘s rousing and muscular playing. And for the finale, „When Lights are Low“ by Benny Carter; across more than ten minutes, the trio thoughtfully and confidently shape this wistful composition, with Sam Jones and his delicate accompaniment again playing a special role.

Musicians:
Oscar Petersen - piano
Sam Jones - bass
Bob Durham - drums

Recorded in the private studio of Hans Georg Brunner-Schwer
Recording director & engineer: Hans Georg Brunner-Schwer

Label: MPS