The Oscar Peterson Trio – Walking The Line

The Oscar Peterson Trio – Walking The Line

A superb example of Oscar Peterson's virtuoso piano playing, Walking The Line captures the legendary Canadian jazz pianist in an intimate trio setting with bassist George "Jiri" Mraz and drummer Ray Price. Recorded at the MPS studio in Villingen, Germany, in November 1970 and released in 1971, the album forms part of Peterson's celebrated run of recordings with German producer Hans Georg Brunner-Schwer.

Known for his extraordinary technique, effortless swing, and ability to combine dazzling improvisation with exceptional musicality, Peterson was one of the most influential jazz pianists of the 20th century. On Walking The Line, his playing ranges from energetic bebop and swinging interpretations of jazz standards to beautifully restrained ballad performances, giving the album a particularly varied and rewarding character.

The opening I Love You, a Cole Porter classic, immediately demonstrates Peterson's remarkable dexterity and rhythmic drive, while Rock Of Ages provides one of the album's biggest surprises. Rather than a conventional reading of the hymn, Peterson transforms it into a lively, gospel-inflected jazz performance. The trio then moves into the delicate Once Upon A Summertime, showcasing the lyrical side of Peterson's playing alongside the rich bass tone of Mraz.

The second side continues with a selection of superb standards, including Teach Me Tonight, The Windmills Of Your Mind, I Didn't Know What Time It Was, and the Cole Porter favourite All Of You. Particularly notable is Peterson's treatment of The Windmills Of Your Mind, where a gentle, atmospheric arrangement builds into an impressive display of rapid-fire piano improvisation.

With its combination of piano jazz, bebop, swing, sophisticated standards and virtuosic improvisation, Walking The Line is an excellent addition to any Oscar Peterson vinyl collection. Essential listening for fans of Bill Evans, Dave Brubeck, Erroll Garner, Bud Powell and classic MPS jazz recordings.

Tracklist

Side A

1. I Love You — 5:10
2. Rock Of Ages — 5:32
3. Once Upon A Summertime — 5:17
4. Just Friends — 3:10

Side B

1. Teach Me Tonight — 5:06
2. The Windmills Of Your Mind — 4:48
3. I Didn't Know What Time It Was — 6:35
4. All Of You — 5:00