Joe Pass Ira, George, And Joe CD

Digitally remastered by Phil De Lancie (1994, Fantasy Studios, Berkeley, California).

Joe Pass recorded so many solo sets for Pablo during the 1970s and '80s that hearing him in a quartet format almost seemed unusual. For this CD reissue, he is joined by his old friend rhythm guitarist John Pisano, bassist Jim Hughart and drummer Shelly Manne for 11 songs by the team of George and Ira Gershwin. The melodies are quite familiar ("Bidin' My Time" is the closest one to an obscurity), and few surprises occur, but the music swings and the results are quite enjoyable. No matter how times one hears "Lady Be Good," "A Foggy Day," "'S Wonderful" and "Embraceable You," there is always room for another superior version. ~ Scott Yanow

Recorded at Group IV Studios, Hollywood, California on November 23, 1981.

Personnel: Joe Pass (guitar); Shelly Manne (drums).

Audio Remasterer: Phil DeLancie.

Recording information: Group IV Recording Studios, Hollywood, CA (11/23/1981).

Photographer: Phil Stern.

Unknown Contributor Roles: Jim Hughart; John Pisano; Shelly Manne.

Personnel: Joe Pass, John Pisano (guitar); Jim Hughart (bass); Shelly Manne (drums).