At the Concertgebouw

AMG Review of At the Concertgebouw

Scott Yanow
All Music Guide

Although the music on this CD was originally said to be recorded in Europe, it actually comes from a Chicago concert, and the five additional selections (last issued on an LP shared with the Modern Jazz Quartet), supposedly performed in Chicago, are from an appearance in Los Angeles. But despite the geographical mixups, the music is consistently brilliant and often wondrous. The trio of Oscar Peterson, Herb Ellis, and Ray Brown had been together for over four years, and these would be among the threesome's last (and finest) recordings. The very tricky arrangements sandwiched remarkable solos, with pianist Peterson sounding especially inspired. Together with the Stratford Shakespearean CD of the previous year, this set features the trio at the peak of its powers. Highlights include "The Lady Is a Tramp," "Budo," "Daahoud," "Indiana," and "Joy Spring."