Recorded for the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation and little heard since then, these radio transcriptions (reissued on CD by Just a Memory) feature the brilliant
Oscar Peterson when he was just 25, only two years after being "discovered" by
Norman Granz.
Peterson performs 20 concise duets with Canadian bassist Auston Roberts; only three songs are over three minutes, and five are under two. Although
Peterson's style was pretty bop-oriented during this era, he sticks mostly to swing standards.
O.P.'s virtuosity was already quite developed, and he rips into such songs as "Flying Home," "I've Got Rhythm," "Seven Come Eleven," "Air Mail Special" and "Get Happy," making every moment of the brief performances count. This melodic and enjoyable set is recommended even to
Oscar Peterson fans who already have over 100 of his records. ~ Scott Yanow