Oscar Peterson - The Way I Really Play (Exclusively For My Friends Vol. 3)

Cat. no: 0219790MSW
Format: LP
Barcode: 4029759197904
Release Date: 07 Mar 2025
Genre: Jazz

With Sam Jones and Bobby Durham, Peterson's new, permanent trio lineup has solidifed on the third volume of the Exclusively For My Friends series

"The best trio I've ever had," the Canadian declared, praising the immediate sense of unity that developed. Aptly, this Vol. 3 is titled "The Way I Really Play." In these recordings, it is unmistakably clear that Jones and Durham recede as ideal canvases for Peterson's piano playing, yet still shine in their solo moments. The opener 
"Waltzing Is Hip" captivates with its clever shift between 3/4 and 4/4 time signatures, as well as the exuberant drum solo. Peterson dazzles with a virtual reinvention of Duke Ellington's "Satin Doll," rendered thoughtfully and harmonically rich. With "Sandy's Blues," the protagonist distinguishes himself as a composer, dedicating this beautifully embellished blues piece to his wife. Another of his compositions, "Noreen's Nocturne," far from being a nocturnal serenade, drives the trio through an exuberant fve minutes. In the rendition of "Alice In Wonderland," made famous by Miles Davis, Peterson showcases his swing artistry. Finally, Gershwin's "Love Is Here To Stay" stands out as a dramatic masterpiece, developing from free lyricism to an engagingly spirited mood with a magnifcent arc of tension.

This is the frst time MPS reissues all the recordings from the "Exclusively For My Friends" series as standalone vinyl LP's. Another treat is the AAA remastering by Grammy nominated mastering engineer Christoph Stickel.

Tracks: Waltzing Is Hip / Satin Doll / Love Is Here To Stay / Sandy's Blues / Alice In Wonderland / Noreen's Nocturn