Subtitled The Best of George Shearing (1992-1998), Reflections truly is just that. This excellent compilation culls tracks from seven discs recorded while
Shearing was in his seventies, placing him in different contexts performing a variety of mostly familiar material. His solo take on
Dave Brubeck's "Summer Song" is especially beautiful, and the trio arrangements of "Straighten Up and Fly Right" and "Gee Baby, Ain't I Good to You" are standouts. However, it's the varied instrumentation that keeps the listener tuned in. The gorgeous accompaniment of
the Robert Farnon Orchestra elevates and enriches "Oh, Lady Be Good!" without diminishing its inherent swing and gives "How Beautiful is the Night" a texturally shimmering glow. Vibist
Steve Nelson and guitarist
Louis Stewart are especially effective on the quintet version of
Shearing's own "Conception" and add quiet depth to the
Horace Silver composition, "Peace." Reflections provides a tasty re-introduction to some fine music from a very classy gentleman. ~ Jim Newsom, All Music Guide
