Bernard Peiffer was a popular pianist on the French jazz scene throughout a good part of the 1950s. This compilation collects a series of sessions (including both solo and trio dates) recorded in 1952 and 1953.
Peiffer's approach to the piano is obviously influenced by
Erroll Garner to a certain extent, especially on standards like "Jeepers Creepers" and "Lady Be Good." But he's also a compelling bop pianist, offering an impressive performance of
Charlie Parker's "Steeplechase." His inventive approach to "Caravan" (heard in two separate takes) incorporates a dramatic shift in the bassline, adding a bit of stride piano in spots.
Peiffer shows off his classical background in his dramatic showpiece "Toccata" (which was influenced in part by
Johann Sebastian Bach's Toccata and Fugue in D Minor), though this is very much a jazz piece. None of these titles have previously been issued outside of France, so this
Jazz in Paris series reissue is a treasure awaiting discovery by jazz fans everywhere.