Johnny Varro has long been one of jazz's greatest swing pianists. Influenced by
Teddy Wilson and to a lesser extent
Fats Waller and
Earl Hines,
Varro had his own voice on his instrument for over 40 years before recording Pure Imagination. Assisted by bassist
Mark Neuenschwander and drummer
Ed Metz Jr.,
Varro swings his way through such numbers as "A Beautiful Friendship," "I'm Old Fashioned," "'Deed I Do," "Drop Me Off in Harlem," and "I'll Take Romance," also including a couple more recent songs in his repertoire. Heard throughout at the peak of his powers,
Varro always keeps the melody in mind while filling his solos with subtle surprises. This is one of his finest showcases and is highly recommended. ~ Scott Yanow