John Whited
Pure jazz joy! Bill is precise ... and clearly knows where he’s going, all the time. He is selfless, adding tastefully, truly complementing the others playing while never losing the forward - moving energy of this tune. Those who have clearly made it to the top make it seem so effortless. Bill certainly embodied an artist who was thankful, grateful and openly respectful of others. This is hard to over state. There was no ego to interfere with his creating and feeling music in its purest form. By the way, I do recommend his biography, How My Heart Sings. Peter Pettinger carries through Bill’s story in the spirit of Bill’s personality. Also, Marion McPartland’s Piano Jazz with guest Bill Evans is a very worthwhile listen, including hearing not only Bill play but also his explaining some very helpful teaching points. And back to this song... it goes right to the soul.