George Shearing - I Hear a Rhapsody (1992)

George Shearing - I Hear a Rhapsody (1992) is a remarkable album by the legendary jazz pianist George Shearing, released in 1992. This album features Shearing's unique piano style in combination with a small ensemble, and it showcases his ability to blend swing, bebop, and classical influences into a highly musical and accessible form of jazz. I Hear a Rhapsody is a celebration of Shearing’s long and influential career, and it provides listeners with a fresh perspective on some timeless jazz standards.

Tracklist

01. Birdfeathers 5:09
02. Dreamsville 04:57
03. The End of a Love Affair 7:07
04. Zingaro 6:13
05. The Duke 8:56
06. I Hear a Rhapsody 5:17
07. The Masquerade is Over 9:41
08. Horizon 5:36
09. Just a Mood 7:05
10. Wail 4:36
11. Too Late Now 6:19
George Shearing - I Hear a Rhapsody (1992)

personnel :

George Shearing - Piano
Neil Swainson - Bass
Grady Tate - Drums

This excellent trio set by George Shearing with bassist Neil Swainson and drummer Grady Tate finds the veteran pianist still in prime form. The repertoire mostly consists of challenging material and tunes not overplayed by Shearing throughout the years. The musical communication between the players on such tunes as "Bird Feathers," "The End of a Love Affair," "The Duke," "The Masquerade Is Over" and an original apiece by Shearing and Swainson is very impressive, and the pianist's solos are typically distinctive. This CD (Shearing's debut on the Telarc label) is a fine example of George Shearing's still-viable playing as he neared his mid-seventies. ~ Scott Yanow