Simply the best
S. Grewal | NY | 04/16/2006
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Just how good is this? To give you an idea, even if released today, these recordings would still be considered the most innovative trio music ever. If you are even remotely into jazz music, buy both this album and Waltz for Debby. They are the zenith of jazz trios. The music is absolutely sublime. I am not knowledgeable of the technical aspects of jazz, but I can still tell that Scott LaFaro shattered the norms for what bassists could do. Bill Evans lyrical quality is unmatched. Paul Motian lays a perfect place for Evans and LaFaro to operate on.
The tracks that stand out the most to me are:
"My Man's Gone Now" - A difinitive version. LaFaro is an absolute shark on the bass, with deep, booming, raspy basslines, while maintaining the proper tone for a somber song. Evans' voicings are perfect.
"Jade Visions". Both takes. Take 2 is a little slower. Written by LaFaro. They are both heavenly. The interplay is stunning, even after 1000s of listens.
Without a doubt, this and Waltz for Debby are desert-island albums for me."
Buy It Now
Max-Factor | Los Angeles, CA USA | 06/30/2006
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I have both the regular CD and the 20 bit version which shows better separation between the instruments and you also get more of the 'you are there' feeling. However the regular CD is also very enjoyable. The performance and the quality of the recording - considering the age - is outstanding. You get a sense that there are no prima-donna's here. Nobody is on some ego-trip. All the musicians participate and communicate with such ease and superb artistry. I feel fortunate to get a glimpse of what it must have been like that particular Sunday at the Village Vanguard."