Oscar Peterson: Meets Roy Hargrove and Ralph Moore

Jeff Duperon

Recent articles (9 total)

Published: July 1, 1997

Ne-o-clas-si-cism: A revival of classical aesthetics and forms, especially, characterized by a regard for the classical ideals of reason, form, and restraint, by order, symmetry, and simplicity of style.

Neo-classicism and Roy Hargrove have become synonymous in jazz circles. His style and focus are now completely his own. Roy possesses a hard driving spirit to excel. Volumes have been written about the virtuosity of Oscar Peterson, his competitive spirit and drive. Together you have the makings of an exciting jam session that's well worth the price of admission. In this case the cost of the CD, that finds these two jazz poets working with a strong cast of players including Peterson's long time associate, Neils-Henning Ørsted Pedersen on bass.

In 1993, Oscar Peterson suffered a stroke that limited the use of his left hand, though there is little evidence to prove that poses a problem on this recording. The CD includes seven original compositions written by Oscar Peterson. "Rob Roy" written for Roy Hargove and "She Has Gone" written in memory of Ella Fitzgerald are captivating. I especially enjoy "Ecstasy," where an introspective emotional reading is heard from Peterson, Hargrove and Moore. This quintet setting gives all the players ample room to stretch and have fun. This CD is highly recommended listening pleasure.

Oscar Peterson - Piano, Roy Hargrove - Trumpet, Ralph Moore - Tenor Sax, Niels-Henning Ørsted Pedersen - Bass, Lewis Nash - Drums

Record Label: Telarc Records
Style: Straight-ahead/Mainstream