The Oscar Peterson Trio - Live in Paris 1957-1962 (2017)

A set of previously unreleased recordings — in Paris between 1957 and 1962 — that Oscar Peterson made in the margins of the famous «Jazz At The Philharmonic» tours organized by impresario Norman Granz. The pianist was a JATP mainstay, and his Trio (featuring bassist Ray Brown with guitarist Herb Ellis or drummer Ed Thigpen), one of the greatest in the history of jazz. The set’s accompanying booklet by Michel Brillié is fi lled with interviews and anecdotes dealing with Oscar and his peers, providing valuable insight, and the music is arguably his best, with its unbeatable groove, unrivalled power, and all the generosity one associates with the Trio’s live performances. This album is a must for jazz fans, newcomers and purists alike. -- Patrick FRÉMEAUX

The Live in Paris collection by Michel Brillié allows listeners to hear previously-unreleased recordings (made at concerts and private- or radio-sessions) by the great 20th stars in jazz, rock & roll and song. These “live” takes, and the artists’ rapport with their audiences, gives these performances an additional soul and sensibility in counterpoint to the rigorous demands of studio recordings. Particular care was taken when restoring the sound of these tapes in order to meet CD standards while preserving the original colours of the period. -- Patrick FRÉMEAUX & Gilles PÉTARD