Bill Evans - Quintessence

Titels

1. Sweet Dulcinea 
2. Martina 
3. Second Time Around 
4. A Child Is Born 
5. Bass Face

Modal piano brilliance! On the 1977 album "Quintessence," the master throws himself wholeheartedly into a rich, melodic wind landscape—an elegant and cool surprise. Here, Bill Evans leaves the familiar confines of his trio and merges his lush harmonic sensibility with first-class winds and a top-notch rhythm section. "Quintessence" is meditative but never sleepy, introspective but never complacent. The album sounds rich, warm, and exudes the quiet confidence of a master spreading his wings simply because he can.

Starting with Evans himself: in 1977, he was less a pianist than a philosopher behind 88 keys. His technique is soft and whispering, yet with an expressive power that deeply touches. On this album, he places his lyrical piano poetry in the context of a quintet. The accompanying musicians are exceptional: Harold Land, with his supple, warm tone, perfectly complements Evans's crystal-clear touch. Kenny Burrell plays with a subtle refinement that suggests he's painting chords rather than strumming them. On bass, we hear Ray Brown—a foundational figure in jazz—anchoring tempo, groove, and soul. Behind the drums is Philly Joe Jones, the drummer called upon when swing is essential. Together they form a tight unit that plays almost telepathically. They not only support Bill Evans but also broaden and deepen his musical world.

As part of the Analogue Productions Fantasy 45 Series, "Quintessence" is now being honored with a sonically superb reissue, meticulously mastered by Kevin Gray and Steve Hoffman at Acoustech Mastering. Pressed on 180-gram vinyl by industry-leading Quality Record Pressings (QRP) and cut at 45 rpm, the double LP comes housed in a classic Stoughton Printing tip-on gatefold sleeve with a durable matte finish.

Musicians

Bill Evans: piano

Harold Land: tenor saxophone

Kenny Burrell: guitar

Ray Brown: bass

Philly Joe Jones: drums