Classic Concert Live finds baritone saxophonist
Gerry Mulligan, pianist
George Shearing, and vocalist
Mel Tormé performing together with a big band in 1982 at Carnegie Hall. The trio first performed in 1977, but this marks the only recorded document of the group. Generally the tone is light and swinging as befits the cool jazz background of
Mulligan and "Velvet Fog" reputation of
Tormé. Similarly,
Shearing is in fine form with his urbane keyboard style adding dramatic punch throughout the night. Whether performing one of
Mulligan's classic compositions such as "Line for Lyons" or a standard like "What Are You Doing for the Rest of Your Life," the trio sounds terrific. ~ Matt Collar