George Shearing, who died in 2011, was one of the most illustrious jazz pianists of his era, overcoming blindness to become one of the truly distinctive keyboard stylists, equally at home as soloist, small group leader, with big bands or as an empathetic accompanist for some of the fine singers who were his contemporaries. This collection traces his recording career over a crucial 20-year period from its very beginnings just before the outbreak of WWII through to classic albums towards the end of the 1950s, including some rare early recordings. It demonstrates the extraordinary breadth of his talent, including his adeptness on the piano accordion, and the way his unique style developed. It includes examples of his work with Stephane Grappelli, and his early trio with Leonard Feather, as well as covering all the incarnations of his classic quintets, notably the Latin excursions when the great Cal Tjader was in his group. There are numerous tracks featuring his solo paino work including the complete 1957 LP “The Shearing Piano”, and his work with the fine vocalists Billy Eckstine and Dakota Staton. Comprising 101 tracks on a 4-CD collection, this is a comprehensive and coherent overview of a key period in the career of a great jazz musician and craftsman. We hope that as well as providing thoroughly entertaining listening it is a fitting tribute to a true giant of the genre.
