The George Shearing Quintet - The Sunny Side Of The Strip

Review by Flora Tan

The George Shearing Quintet's album, The Sunny Side Of The Strip, is a perfect blend of jazz and Latin rhythms that transport the listener to the sun-drenched streets of Los Angeles. The album features Shearing's signature piano playing, accompanied by the talented musicians of his quintet, including Armando Peraza on congas, Al McKibbon on bass, and Percy Brice on drums.

The album opens with the upbeat "Mambo Inn," a Latin jazz classic that sets the tone for the rest of the album. Shearing's piano playing is crisp and precise, while Peraza's conga adds a lively percussive element to the track. Other standout tracks include "The Continental," a classic swing tune that showcases Shearing's impeccable timing and the quintet's tight harmonies, and "Rondo," a lively Latin jazz number that features a memorable call-and-response between Shearing's piano and Peraza's conga.

Summary by Flora Tan

Throughout the album, Shearing and his quintet demonstrate their mastery of both jazz and Latin rhythms, seamlessly blending the two to create a unique and captivating sound. The Sunny Side Of The Strip is a must-listen for fans of jazz and Latin music alike.