Search - Bill Evans :: On Green Dolphin Street

Decent, but not essential Evans

Micah Newman | Fort Worth, TX United States | 01/16/2004

(3 out of 5 stars)

"I don't think Bill Evans has ever, or could have ever, recorded a poor trio record. That said, some of his trio LPs are more interesting than others. Evans, Chambers, and Jones happened to be in the studio together after a session as the rhythm section behind Chet Baker, and producer Orrin Keepnews asked them to stick around and read a few standards. This session resulted, and its off-the-cuff nature does result in some lightheartedness and breeziness, but at the same some carelessness: it really does sound like three musicians just "reading through some standards." Evans sounds somewhat laconic most of the way through, and Chambers and Jones mainly just keep time.There are some nice moments, though, and Evans' own unique brand of chordal magic really comes through on the title cut. Interestingly, during his solo on "My Heart Stood Still," Evans quotes "Santa Claus Is Coming to Town": two tunes which were later to appear together on the Verve LP "Trio '64".But there's a bonus to round out this disc: an alternate take of "All of You" (take 1) from the "Sunday at the Village Vanguard" performance unavailable on that album (the CD reissue includes takes 2 and 3; 1 remaining extant). Those who are, like me, fanatical devotees of the June '61 Village Vanguard sessions, and who don't have the Complete Riverside box, will hungrily devour this extra take of incomparable trio playing. If you're not, though, don't put this disc on your Top Ten Must-Own Evans Albums."

The dude below is trippin

DJ Romantic K | Osaka Japan | 09/23/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This CD is fantastic.... Lay back with a loved one and pop this disc into your player"

Wonderful Bill

Norman F. Nelson | California | 08/24/2007

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This is a delightful album from early-mid career for Bill Evans. Some of the cuts might not please all listeners, but "Green Dolphin Street" alone makes the album worth owning and enjoying. I saw Bill Evans in person in Chicago very near the end of his life/career and became a fan for (my) life. If you appreciate subtle phrasing, gentle harmonies and brisk, well-defined jazz tempos, you'll like this album. Thanks, Bill."