AMG Review of Essence of Erroll Garner

Michael G. Nastos
All Music Guide

Columbia Records nurtured the career of Erroll Garner in his later days, with Concert by the Sea still an all-time favorite. For those wanting more, these 12 tracks should somewhat satisfy you, but considering his near Herculean discography, it's only a small piece of the pie, albeit tasty. You do get the evergreens "Lover," "Laura," "April In Paris," and the immortal "Misty" in this stack of standards, lovingly interpreted by Garner. This collection is certainly close to the core, though not comprehensive, of essential Garner.