Evans, Bill -& Jim Hall-
Undercurrent 1962
In 1962, legendary jazz pianist Bill Evans collaborated for the first time on record with jazz guitarist Jim Hall to
create the landmark album Undercurrent. And even though it is a two-person improvisational affair, it is almost
unfathomable that these two giants alone fill up all the grooves on this record. The thoughtful interplay between these
two musicians created such a beautiful, lush, and emotional journey that their work influenced many.
At the time of this recording, Bill Evans was one of the top jazz pianists (his performance with Miles Davis on Kind Of
Blue is still a high-water mark), but he had stopped performing and recording after the death of his peer, bassist Scott
LaFaro. Eventually, he was persuaded to return to music, and this was one of the first recordings upon his return.
Guitarist Jim Hall - who had worked with Ella Fitzgerald, Sonny Rollins, and Chico Hamilton - started his partnership
with Evans during this time. Recorded over two sessions in April and May 1962, the two have that beautifully unspoken
musical language of give and take; their recordings are refreshingly busy but also incredibly sparse. These two giants
understand that intertwining their personalities and harmonic styles could create greatness.
This notable re-issue is an all-analog production affair-AAA Mastered and cut live by audio guru Kevin Gray (Miles
Davis, Herbie Hancock, Charles Mingus)-and its never sounded better. Pressed at Cascade Records
So dim the lights and let this music breathe with you; its an incredible listen and an essential album for both the
novice listener wanting to dip their toe into the genre or the audiophile who needs to replace their well-worn vinyl
copy. And depending on your day, it will color your mood in any emotive shade you desire.
Price
Genre
Format
LP - 1 disk
Release
19-04-2024
Label
Item-nr
594136
EAN
0843563163023
Availability
Exp. 19-04-2024
Tracks
Title
Artist
1
MY FUNNY VALENTINE
2
I HEAR A RHAPSODY
3
DREAM GYPSY
4
ROMAIN
5
SKATING IN CENTRAL PARK
6
DARN THAT DREAM