Oscar Peterson Swiss Radio Days, Vol. 16 CD

This previously unreleased concert set is from the same evening as Swiss Radio Days, Vol. 15: JATP Lausanne 1953, though this portion of the program is a fully instrumental set. Pianist Oscar Peterson leads a four-piece rhythm section including guitarist Barney Kessel, bassist Ray Brown, and drummer Gene Krupa, with tenor saxophonist Lester Young, alto saxophonist Willie Smith, and trumpeter Charlie Shavers in the front line. The Jazz at the Philharmonic All-Stars shine in the extended workout of Duke Ellington's "C Jam Blues," with Lester Young's gritty, swinging solo standing out from the pack, though Kessel's bluesy effort gives him a run for the money. A brief trio of ballads played in medley form showcases Young before and after Smith, while Shavers' feature is "Dark Eyes." The final two numbers are a bit unusual, as Peterson and Krupa provide the sole support for Smith (the only horn soloist), with the pianist sounding a good bit like Teddy Wilson. Highly recommended. ~ Ken Dryden

Liner Note Author: Kurt Weill.

Recording information: Theatre de Beaulieu, Lausanne, Switzerland (03/14/1953).

Personnel: Oscar Peterson (piano); Oscar Peterson; Willie "The Lion" Smith (alto saxophone); Ray Brown (bass guitar); Barney Kessel (guitar); Lester Young (tenor saxophone); Charlie Shavers (trumpet); Gene Krupa, J.C. Heard (drums).

Audio Remasterer: Blaise Favre.