Throughout his Concord years (which are partly covered on this 1998 sampler CD), pianist George Shearing recorded some of the finest albums of his career. On this disc, there are 13 selections taken from 13 different albums covering a ten-year period. The intimate music features Shearing on unaccompanied solos; in duets with guitarist Jim Hall ("Emily") and bassists Brian Torff and Don Thompson; in a trio; backing Carmen McRae and Ernestine Anderson; and, on three occasions, performing with Mel Tormé. The best Shearing recordings are well worth acquiring in full, so this overview just gives one a taste of the great pianist's diversity. ~ Scott Yanow, All Music Guide