by Scott Yanow
It was a typical recording session for pianist Erroll Garner. With his regular trio of the period (bassist Wyatt Ruther and drummer Fats Heard) plus Candido, Garner recorded 24 songs (all first takes) on July 27, 1954. 13 of the pieces are on this 1998 CD reissue, including the earliest recorded version of his big hit &Misty.& Other highlights include &I've Got the World on a String,& a lengthy &7-11 Jump,& &There's a Small Hotel& and &I've Got to Be a Rugcutter.& Erroll Garner never recorded an uninspired solo, and this CD is as good a place as any to explore his joyful music.