George Shearing The Best of George Shearing

Who knows about the "best-of" George Shearing, really? This is one of those budget jobs Collectables strews about the record bins of big shelf retailers that cost impulsive shoppers a few dollars. It's not that the music here isn't worthwhile, it very much is. And there are so many classic tunes here, such as "Lullaby of Birdland," his unique "Gone with the Wind," and his slippery "Honeysuckle Rose," as well as a stomping (for Shearing) "Jumpin' with Symphony Sid." But there is some real schmaltz here, too, such as a version of "September Song" absolutely drenched in strings; his Lawrence Welkian take on Latin rhythms with "Sand in My Shoes"; and a too-cute take on the blues in "Makin' Whoopee." There are far better Shearing compilations out there, check out one of those and leave this one in the bargain bin where it belongs. ~ Thom Jurek