Oklahoma Toad

Dave Frishberg enjoyed a career remarkable for both its quality and its diversity. Long recognized as one of the outstanding pianists in jazz, he went on to establish himself as an internationally known composer, lyricist, and solo performer with a devoted following. His song credits include the cult classics ‘My Attorney Bernie’, ‘Van Lingle Mungo’, ‘Peel Me a Grape’ and ‘You Are There’ and his work has been recorded by Rosemary Clooney, Diana Krall, Tony Bennett, Mel Torme and many others.

Oklahoma Toad, co-produced by David Rosner and Margo Guryan, was where it all began. Although Frishberg was already well regarded as a jazz sideman and accompanist, this was the first time he sang his own songs on record, setting the stage for everything that followed.

This edition marks the first time on vinyl for the artist-approved producer’s mix and presents all ten original tracks. A bonus 7” single rounds out the package with Frishberg’s version of his oft- recorded classic ‘Peel Me a Grape’ and ‘A World Without Verbs’, a previously unheard ‘Schoolhouse Rock’ outtake submitted to ABC for its ‘Grammar Rock’ series. Liner notes by Bill Reed