Shane Lavalette

In the age of downloadable albums and iPods, some people might find it surprising that I occasionally buy LPs. Sometimes I find it kind of surprising myself.

When the rare occasion comes, however, I tend to justify my purchase by reassuring myself how wonderful the particular album would sound on vinyl. You see, there are albums out there that lend themselves especially well to the record format and the good ‘ol phonograph – that simply should be played along with the beautiful crackling of a needle. Maybe you know what sort of albums I’m talking about?

Just a few days ago I picked up an album at a local record shop: The Sound of the Trio (Oscar Peterson, Ray Brown and Ed Thigpen). I knew the record would be good; there’s really nothing like listening to an Oscar Peterson album on vinyl. Nothing at all.

putting on an Oscar Peterson album in my old apartment, April, 2007

In fact, one of my favorites is another of his (pictured above). I think I’ve played that record more than any other album that I own on vinyl.

Well, you can imagine the sadness I felt today when I read the article in the Times about Oscar Peterson passing away yesterday, at the age of 82. The death of one of the greatest jazz musicians to live leaves a lump in my throat that is hard and unmoving. When I looked at the record I thought to myself, “how great it is to hold this in my hands.”

What better time than now to dust it off, let the needle down and have his sweet music playing through the night.

Goodbye, Oscar Peterson.