Gil Evans - The Individualism of Gil Evans

Gil Evans — The Individualism of Gil Evans

Part of the Verve Vault Series

Mastered from the original analog tapes by Ryan K. Smith at Sterling Sound

180-gram vinyl pressed at Optimal in Germany

One of arranger-composer Gil Evans' most compelling works!

"This 'vagabond' of an album was recorded between September, 1963 and July, 1964 at three locations — A&R Studios, Webster Hall and Van Gelder Studios. This Grammy-nominated album is part of the Verve Vault Series of reissues, this one mastered from the original analog tapes by Ryan Smith at Sterling Sound and pressed at Optimal on 180g. (10/11 for Music, 10/11 for Sound) ... the vibe here is atmospheric, twilight and sultry, positively 'take it off' burlesque-like on 'Hotel Me'. Evans' piano playing is almost rock-like on that tune where he stabs as much as plays the piano. Bob Simpson gives you all of Webster Hall's excellent reverberant acoustics on that track. Too much fun!" — Music = 10/11; Sound = 9/11 — Michael Fremer, TrackingAngle.com. Read Fremer's full review here.

Released in 1964 on Verve, The Individualism of Gil Evans stands as one of arranger-composer Gil Evans' most compelling works, showcasing some of the finest music of his career. The album blends Evans' originals and Miles Davis collaborations with inspired interpretations, all rendered through his distinctive big band lens. A core group of musicians, including Johnny Coles, Steve Lacy, Jimmy Cleveland, Tony Studd, Bill Barber, Elvin Jones, and Paul Chambers, lend a remarkable consistency of texture and mood.

Evans himself plays piano throughout, his touch especially poignant on "The Barbara Song," where a sense of deep pathos is underscored by Shorter's expressive tenor. From the brooding atmosphere of "Time of the Barracudas" to the one-chord intensity of "El Toreador," the album highlights Evans' mastery of tone, space, and orchestral nuance. The Verve Vault series is always mastered from analog tapes and pressed on 180-gram vinyl at Optimal.

 

Music

Sound

Ratings from Michael Fremer @ trackingangle.com

Side A

1. The Barbara Song

2. Las Vegas Tango

Side B

1. Flute Song / Hotel Me

2. El Toreador

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