

The former is an explosive and breathtaking virtuoso outing that sets the tone for the entire set, while the latter closes the concerto on an only slightly muted note of fiery swing. The set closes with the lively tracks "The Lamp is Low" and "On the Trail," which have been stirring tempers since the turbulent 1930s. The eight tracks are a compilation of songbook classics, standards and Western classical-inspired songs - all with Peterson's personal touch. Ørsted Pedersen and Hayes are always one with the master, and together they create a seamless panorama of rich musicianship and palpable excitement throughout this 60+ minute set - as evidenced by the audience's sustained and enthusiastic response to each piece.

Peterson generally takes no prisoners, explosive runs build upon explosive runs, but always with an affectionate sensibility that is both engaging and breathtaking. As anyone familiar with Peterson's particular artistry can expect - particularly when performed live - the music is expressive, provocative and at times wild in intensity. Instead, he drew on their individual artistry to create a unique entity for each individual manifestation of his trio concept. Peterson wasn't a leader who simply expected his fellow musicians to conform to his own ideas about the music. This performance, recorded at the very end of the tour, shows the group at the height of their grandiose creative mastery. Anyone familiar with the great art of jazz knows that the more often an ensemble performs together, the greater the connection, the more perfect the synergy, and the more rewarding the listening experience. The extraordinary tandem of bassist Niels-Henning Ørsted Pedersen and drummer Louis Hayes only came together on a single studio album - Great Connection - which was recorded prior to this tour. With the release of On a Clear Day by Mack Avenue Music Group / Two Lions Records: The Oscar Peterson Trio - Live in Zurich, 1971, we have the opportunity to hear an extremely rare version of the trio format for which the eminent artist was so well known. When a completely unheard of treasure is discovered, it's a cause for celebration and when that treasure comes from a profound master like Oscar Peterson, even more so.

Previously unreleased live recording of the concert in Zurich in 1971. Info for On a Clear Day: The Oscar Peterson Trio - Live in Zurich, 1971 (Remastered)
