Deep Velvet - George Shearing

Passing By

Deep Velvet
George Shearing with Quintet and Woodwind Choir
Arranged by George Shearing
Orchestrations by Bobby Hammack, Julian Lee and Milt Raskin
Produced by David Cavanaugh
Capitol Records
ST 2143
1964

From Billboard - October 24, 1964: Mr. Shearing has had great success with his other mood musical ventures into the "velvety, silky" and "satiny." This "Deep Velvet" excursion should prove to be just as big a success as its predecessors. This time out George's fine playing is set against a choir of 12 woodwinds. With the Quintet in support. "Sentimental Journey", "Willow Weep For Me," "My Heart Stood Still" and others are refreshing to the ear.

The unmistakable Shearing "Quintet" sound blends perfectly with the woodwind section. What makes the set special is Shearing's excellent arrangements. Each song becomes more than what  you might be expect to hear from his group and the set, as a collection of tunes, is more than just another "Shearing" lounge effort. This effort is more of a concept album.

One of Shearing's better sets.

Here's That Rainy Day
I Used To Be Color Blind
Sentimental Journey
Passing By
Would You Like To Take A Walk
Signing Off
One Love
Nightfall
Willow Weep For Me
Slowly
Spring Is Here
My Heart Stood Still