"This CD has two albums, The Jazz Soul....recorded in '59 and Affinity from '62. Most professional jazz critics believe that Peterson' best music was recorded with Ray Brown (of course) and Herb Ellis, but this double CD is evidence that the trio with Brown and Ed Thigpen on drums was one of the best jazz trios ever. Not only is the music outstanding, but the CD is a great value, with over 74 minutes of music. This is a must buy for any Oscar Peterson fan."
Brilliant Trio
Jared lee | Singapore | 10/11/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Affinity is pretty close to as good as the Trio's live performance in London. Affinity reveals the depth of the TRIO's teamwork, and as well as ED THIGPEN's role as a drummer, showing off his impeccable brush work skills. Peterson and Brown are just as brilliant. Certainly worth a listen."
Stunning
S J Buck | Kent, UK | 11/15/2007
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This is one of Oscar Petersons finest albums and an essential purchase for anybody who enjoys great Piano Jazz.
Noteable tracks are his version of Bill Evans 'Waltz for Debby' and 'You are my Hearts delight'. Bill Evans had quite an effect on Petersons playing in the 60's and 70's and of course this is one of Evans finest tunes. 'You are my Hearts Delight' is one of the great Peterson performances. Starting at a slow to moderate tempo it changes gear a number of times until at the end Peterson is playing phenomenal Piano at an extremly fast tempo. This really is the virtuoso Peterson at the very height of his powers.
The rest of the album is just as interesting with perhaps my other favourite being his version of Gillespie's ' Con Alma'. Another Jazz standard that is beautifully played.
You won't be disappointed by this.
"
Oscar's best
S J Buck | 06/28/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Of the many Oscar Peterson CDs that I've bought over the last few years, this is one of the best, along with the live recordings from Chicago in the 1960's."