Oscar Peterson Trio With Milt Jackson - Very Tall (LP)

"Very Tall" is a remarkable jazz album that brings together the prodigious talents of the Oscar Peterson Trio and the legendary vibraphonist Milt Jackson. Released in 1962, this album is a testament to the virtuosity and synergy between these jazz giants. The collaboration between Oscar Peterson, known for his impeccable technique and swing on the piano, and Milt Jackson, a founding member of the Modern Jazz Quartet and a master of the vibraphone, results in a collection of tracks that are both sophisticated and accessible.

The album opens with "On Green Dolphin Street," a standard that showcases the seamless interplay between Peterson's fluid piano lines and Jackson's melodic vibraphone. The rhythm section, consisting of Ray Brown on bass and Ed Thigpen on drums, provides a solid foundation that allows the lead instruments to explore and improvise with freedom. This track sets the tone for the album, highlighting the group's ability to balance technical prowess with emotional expression.

One of the standout tracks on the album is "Heartstrings," an original composition by Milt Jackson. This piece features a beautiful melody that is both haunting and uplifting, with Jackson's vibraphone taking center stage. The interplay between Jackson and Peterson is particularly noteworthy here, as they weave in and out of each other's lines with a telepathic understanding. The rhythm section complements the lead instruments perfectly, with Ray Brown's bass providing a warm, resonant underpinning and Ed Thigpen's drumming adding subtle yet effective accents.

"Very Tall" also includes a rendition of "Work Song," a composition by Nat Adderley that has become a jazz standard. The Oscar Peterson Trio and Milt Jackson infuse this track with a bluesy feel, driven by a swinging groove and soulful solos. Peterson's piano work is particularly impressive, as he navigates the changes with ease and injects his solos with a sense of urgency and passion.

The album was well-received by critics upon its release, praised for the chemistry between the musicians and the high level of musicianship displayed throughout. The collaboration between Peterson and Jackson was seen as a meeting of equals, with both artists bringing their unique voices to the project while also complementing each other perfectly. The album's production, handled by the legendary jazz producer Norman Granz, ensures that each instrument is captured with clarity and warmth, allowing the listener to fully appreciate the nuances of the performances.

In terms of historical significance, "Very Tall" stands as a prime example of the kind of high-caliber collaborations that were a hallmark of the jazz scene in the 1960s. It showcases the ability of jazz musicians to come together and create something greater than the sum of its parts, blending different styles and approaches into a cohesive whole. The album also highlights the versatility of both Oscar Peterson and Milt Jackson, demonstrating their ability to adapt to different musical contexts while maintaining their distinctive voices.

While "Very Tall" may not have won any major awards, its legacy is evident in the continued admiration it receives from jazz enthusiasts and musicians alike. The album remains a favorite among fans of both Oscar Peterson and Milt Jackson, and it serves as an excellent introduction to their work for those new to jazz. Its blend of technical brilliance, emotional depth, and infectious swing makes it a timeless classic that continues to inspire and delight listeners more than six decades after its release.

Overall, "Very Tall" is a must-listen for anyone interested in jazz, offering a glimpse into the magic that can happen when two of the genre's most respected figures come together to create music. The album's enduring appeal lies in its ability to capture the essence of jazz: a celebration of spontaneity, collaboration, and the joy of musical expression.