Oscar Peterson – A Time For Love – Live In Helsinki 1987 is a terrific album. This Peterson composition is high-octane swing with a transcendent frenetic piano solo. The finale (“Blues Etude”) is fitting to a memorable concert. He retains the melodic essence, and improvises extensively. Joe Pass is equally adroit in his solo interpretation of “When You Wish Upon A Star”. In a solo performance, he captures all of the eloquence of Evans, but injects flashy runs and trademark “O.P.” stylistic articulation. Undaunted, Peterson offers a tribute to fellow pianist extraordinaire Bill Evans on “Waltz For Debby”. Here, the band is racing at dazzling speed. Peterson intuitive playing is perceptive and virtuosic as he moves through “Come Sunday”, “C-Jam Blues” and especially on “Caravan”. The approachable swing of “Don’t Get Around Much Anymore” is translated gracefully with a faithful cover. The familiar melodic chord progression of “Take The A Train” fits perfectly with this quartet’s dynamics. And “Duke Ellington Medley” (Side E) more than meets this expectation. It seems only natural that a jazz icon like Peterson would pay homage to another one. Returning to bop, “Soft Winds” is syncopated and bristles with punctuated tempo and freewheeling jazz intonation. Peterson’s solo is erudite with bluesy flourish. They intermingle a funky left-handed piano run with a jazzy country twang. The quartet’s take on the Les Paul, Mary Ford 1951 classic, “How High The Moon” is interesting. Switching gears, the title track is more contemplative and the interchange between Peterson and Pass is supple. It epitomizes the flexibility of Peterson and his commitment to musical exploration. The final part is achingly beautiful, and ends in approachable soul jazz. The twenty-minute “suite” kicks off with swaying-trio allegro that transitions to a breathless andante with solos from guitar and double bass. This “Salute to Bach” distills the essence of Bach into various time signatures. Side C has one number and it is a remarkable jazz alchemy of J.S. In another original (“Love Ballade”), the pianist balances tender classical-infused lyricism with ethereal melancholy. Peterson maintains the ferocity with dazzling right hand notation. Pass’ fiery solo is electrifying as the rhythm section percolates. Embracing straight ahead bop, “Sushi” is explosive. There is palpable chemistry with his band mates, and Pass displays his instrumental gravitas between piano runs. His distinctive style and beautiful phrasing is uncanny. His deft touch transitions to a jaunty, soul-infused jam. “Cool Wall” establishes a tight groove with double bass drum, and guitar joining in as Peterson enters the stage. Side A consists of two Peterson compositions. To put it mildly, the performance is incendiary and bursting with musical dexterity. This particular concert was the last stop on a 14 city tour from South America to Europe. The Oscar Peterson Quartet/ Live In Helsinki 1987 features the iconic jazz master backed up by Joe Pass (guitar), Dave Young (double bass) and Martin Drew (drums). Mack Avenue Music Group has released a translucent blue 180-gram triple vinyl of a notable mid career concert. Several of his live albums are part of jazz lore, including his final release in 2015. Peterson recorded solo, duo, trio, quartet and played alongside other jazz legends. His mastery of swing, classical and balladry earned the Downbeat award for pianist of the year 13 consecutive occasions. Duke Ellington referred to him as the “Maharaja of the Keyboards”. He was influenced by Teddy Wilson and most notably, Art Tatum. Over a six decade career that included nearly 200 recordings, Peterson performed thousands of concerts worldwide, and was respected by his colleagues. Seven-time Grammy award winner Oscar Peterson is considered among the greatest jazz pianists. (Oscar Peterson – piano Joe Pass – guitar Dave Young – bass Martin Drew – drums) Mack Avenue Music Group releases a vibrant mid career live album from Oscar Peterson Oscar Peterson – A Time For Love – The Oscar Peterson Quartet/Live In Helsinki 1987 Two Lions Records/Mack Avenue Music Group MAC1151LP translucent blue 180-gram stereo triple vinyl, 110:26 *****: