The Oscar Peterson Quartet brought its 1987 European tour to a close with an amazing night of music in Helsinki, Finland.
The pianist/bandleader was in impeccable form during the 12-song set, leading his mighty band — featuring guitarist Joe Pass, bassist Dave Young and drummer Martin Drew — through one stirring number after another.
Peterson, one of the greatest jazz musicians of all time, initially focused on his original compositions, opening with “Cool Walk” and then continuing with “Sushi,” “Love Ballade” and “Cakewalk.” He followed with “A Salute to Bach,” then moved onto the Johnny Mandel number “A Time for Love,” Benny Goodman’s “Soft Winds,” a Duke Ellington Medley (including “Don’t Get Around Much Anymore”) and other delights.
Jazz fans around the globe can enjoy this wonderful performance — which took place on Nov. 17, 1987 at the Kulttuuritalo concert venue — now that Two Lions/Mack Avenue Records. has released “A Time for Love: The Oscar Peterson Quartet — Live in Helsinki.”
It’s pretty much a must listen for any big jazz. But don’t just take our word. Instead, take the word of Benny Green, who writes so eloquently — and passionately — about the album in the linear notes:
“This live recording of Oscar in his epic prime is a heaven-sent time capsule of beauty and serves a glorious addition to the jazz pantheon itself, a stunning testament to the music for which he honestly, humbly and fearlessly decided his life as a peaceful warrior, a hero to us all for the ages.”
“A Time for Love” is best enjoyed as 3-LP set, issued on beautiful translucent blue 180-gram vinyl, but it’s also available as a double-CD and on digital formats. For more information, visit mackavenue.com.
