Along with his album with
Count Basie (
Basie and Zoot) during the same period, this is one of
Sims' most exciting recordings of his career. Greatly assisted by pianist
Oscar Peterson, guitarist
Joe Pass, bassist
George Mraz, and drummer
Grady Tate, he explores ten songs written by
George and Ira Gershwin. Somehow the magic was definitely present and, whether it be stomps such as "The Man I Love," "Lady Be Good," and "I Got Rhythm" or warm ballads (including "I've Got a Crush on You" and "Embraceable You"),
Zoot Sims is heard at the peak of his powers. A true gem. ~ Scott Yanow