Gil Evans - The Classic Albums 1956 - 1963 (2016)

Bridging the gap between big band, modal, third wave and jazz fusion, across more than five decades, Gil Evans will be forever recognised as one of the leading and most daring composers and arrangers to have worked in the jazz genre. A highly talented pianist in his own right, Evans was best known for his work organising and conducting groups and orchestras for other artists, such as those of Charlie Parker, Johnny Mathis and, most notably, Miles Davis. However, Evans also produced a series of exceptional albums under his own name, which received widespread praise from critics, particularly those he released during the late 1950s and early 1960s. It remains this body of work that most readily recalls the pure genius of this master musician, whose enormous influence on the development of jazz is unquestionable. By the end of the 1940s, Evans modest New York apartment had become a popular hangout for young jazz musicians, including Gerry Mulligan, George Russell, Lee Konitz, George Russell and Miles Davis. It was through these meetings that the Miles Davis nonet was formed, and following a short engagement at the Royal Roost club in New York, produced the sessions that would be released as Birth Of The Cool (Capitol, 1957), for which Evans provided the arrangements. By the end of the decade this partnership had produced three more classic albums: Miles Ahead (Columbia, 1957), Porgy And Bess (Columbia, 1958) and the Grammy Award-winning Sketches Of Spain (Columbia, 1960). This would be their most fruitful period, although they would sporadically work together throughout the 1960s, and again in the 1980s. This four disc collection, containing over five hours of music, features the entirety of Gil Evans solo output during the 1950s and 1960s. In addition, this set houses a selection of the finest material recorded by Gil and Miles Davis together, and includes all of Evans compositions recorded by the duo. Demonstrating the magnificent talents of Gil Evans as a musician, arranger and composer, this compilation is both a fine introduction to this maestro s work and a welcome reminder of his enduring influence, enormous legacy and sublime output.