"The Composer" was meant to showcase the in-depth abilities of Oscar
Peterson as a composer and jazz pianist. This CD is a collection of
songs recorded between 1974 and 1986 for the Pablo label, a subsidiary
of Fantasy. There is mixture of live and studio tracks to give you
an idea of the atmosphere of a night in concert with Peterson and
the perfection he created in the studio.
The incomparable Joe Pass is present to lend his lightning fast
guitar to Peterson's equally rapid finger movements on the keys. Pass
certainly added an appealing and tasty element to the overall musical
scheme of things. Those of you whom have become accustomed to Peterson's
style and choice of accompaniment my find this a bit strident as he
jumps from one style to the next on this assorted collection. There
is jazz, ragtime, swing, blues, and classical to enjoy amongst the
offerings on the nine tracks.
While most may have considered him a magnificent interpreter of
American standards, he begs to differ with his fleeting adroitness
and ability to bounce around from one style to the next fluidly and
naturally. Peterson proves time and again that he is flexible and
most entertaining regardless of what direction he decides to take
musically on this bright and upbeat collection. The man has been a
modern day wonder with the gift of virtuosity at his very fingertips.
The proof of my words are found in the songs "Lady Di's Waltz"
and "The Bach Suite: Allegro." The contrast and differentiated color
palettes between the two songs are striking and most commendable.
This may be the most different and enjoyable Oscar Peterson recording
you will ever hear, and it may quickly become the most treasured.
1. Jubilation
2. Lady Di's Waltz
3. Night Child
4. L'Impossible
5. City Lights
6. The Bach Suite: Allegro
7. If You Only Knew
8. Hogtown Blues
9. Place St. Henri
