DESCRIPTION:
BASIE AND FRIENDS contains some unique performances, many of which are due with the fact that no horns appear on the album. Basie performs duets with the technical wizard, Oscar Peterson, on "She's Funny That Way," "Royal Garden Blues," and "Sweet Lorraine"; the Canadian pianist seems decidedly more restrained when teamed up with The Count. In fact, Basie's quasi stride style blends well with Peterson's flashier approach. Basie sustains a strong rapport with the personnel included here; BASIE AND FRIENDS may be the jazz icon's most intimate of releases.