Terrific, but can be topped
Eric C. Sedensky | Madison, AL, US | 01/19/2008
(4 out of 5 stars)
"This is a great Bill Evans album and a must for any serious jazz enthusiast, but, rather than buy this album, I recommend The Complete Village Vanguard Recordings, 1961. That way, for just a little more money, you get all the recordings on this album, plus the outtakes, alternate takes, and a host of other songs that do not appear on this classic jazz album."
Distortion
Doreen Appleton | Scottsdale, Arizona | 01/03/2009
(3 out of 5 stars)
"Unfortunately, on this CD and its companion, SUNDAY AT THE VILLAGE VANGUARD, the piano is plagued by distortion.I tried to pick out the songs with less distortion for the purpose of making a mix, but I realized I would always be listening for distortion, so I put them away.
It's a pity, because the session took place ten days before Scott LaFaro's death, and the recording of his bass is superb.
If you're willing to overlook the buzzing of the distortion in the piano, buy them both. The musicianship is extraordinary."
Tops In Warmth and Affection
Tony | 07/14/2010
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This may be my first jazz review. I give Waltz for Debby five stars and I think, all in all, it just may be my personal favorite jazz recording that I am acquainted with. I am citing comparative recordings in the hope that some folks write me and give me suggestions for music I may like.
If I could summarize, I think the Bill Evans trio in this recording is tops for warmth and affection and I intend some subjectivity to these terms. It is how I feel. I also place the highest regard to this ethereal quality with perhaps only melody rating as important (of course, this all assumes the musicians can play). My favorites on the album are My Romance and Waltz for Debby and I offer no complaints for the recording containing two versions of each.
Oh, one negative. I do think there is sometimes an overemphasis on the bass solos.
That being said, comparisons. Jarrett Trio tops in everything, but not in that warmth. Evans is warmer for me. Tord Gustavson Trio very nice and soft, but not nearly as melodic. E.s.t. very nice, but not nearly as warm and not as melodic. What rates for me for individual songs? Waterwheels (Klemmer), Aubrey (Grover Washington, Jr.), The Very Thought of You (perhaps my favorite) and When I Faill In Love (Botti).
I just love that kind of sweet melody and warmth.
Tony"