Perry Beekman continues his “tribute” album series with this most recent one being ded
icated to George and Ira Gershwin. His first two were tips of the cap to Rodgers & Hart and Cole Porter, and this time out the guitarist/vocalist teams up with Lou Pappas/b and Peter Tomlinson for a cozy and fresh reading of the Gershwin songbook.
Beekman’s strength is that he lets the song do the work. Thus, material such as “Oh, Lady Be Good” or “S’Wondeful” don’t need anything extra but a sense of swinging rhythm and a respect of the melody. Beekman’s voice is John Pizzarelli warm, relaxed and reassuring during his intros on “Love Is Here To Stay” and ”Someone To Watch Over Me.” He also knows his way around the guitar as he toys with the tunes on his solos on “Facscinating Rhythm” and “But Not For Me.” Nothing flashy here, and that’s what gets your attention.