Absolutely Gorgeous
Joseph DeMarco | Providence, RI United States | 01/20/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Fred is marvelous (as usual) on this recording. His unique treatment of these old standards -- including his clever use of harmony, and surprising command of improvisatory counterpoint -- makes them all the more beautiful, and breathes new life into them. I could not recommend this recording more highly. It's an absolute favorite of mine."
Sensitive Readings of R&H
E. C Goodstein | Northern CA United States | 02/22/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Yes, this is a 'jazz' approach to Rodgers & Hammerstein, but that's what makes it interesting, even exciting to me. These songs have sometimes eluded jazz players' but although he's very 'true' to the melodies, Hersch does indeed catch interesting nuances in the harmonies. And the variations, while subtle, show simultaneously just how simple and complex this music really is, and I think why it has remained so appealing. Okay it's quiet, but one of the
best 'improvising' approaches to Rodgers and Hammerstein I've heard."