专辑简介

This recording makes for wonderful background music, but it is not background music. It is a very inventive musician exploring the music of a great composer and it deserves close listening. Fred Hersch is an impeccable pianist and Billy Strayhorn's often lush compositions are perfect vehicles for him. The string orchestra under the direction of Eric Stern provides accent and accompaniment without ever becoming instrusive or overwhelming. Everything fits together nicely and every cut is worthwhile. If I had to choose a favorite it would be the beautiful "Lament for an Orchid."