At Shelly's Manne-Hole [Live in Hollywood, CA/May 14 & 19, 1963] Bill Evans Artist

Although the {|Scott LaFaro|}-{|Paul Motian|} lineup of {|the Bill Evans Trio|} is generally considered to be the strongest, {|Chuck Israels|} and {|Larry Bunker|} make a strong case of their own on {|At Shelly's Manne-Hole|}, a 1964 release that fin... Read more

Although the {|Scott LaFaro|}-{|Paul Motian|} lineup of {|the Bill Evans Trio|} is generally considered to be the strongest, {|Chuck Israels|} and {|Larry Bunker|} make a strong case of their own on {|At Shelly's Manne-Hole|}, a 1964 release that finds the entire band in classic form. This particular trio may lack some of the sheer combustive force of the better-known lineup, but it is, if possible, even more sensitive, melancholic, and nostalgic than the previous band. The leadoff track, {|Isn't It Romantic,|} is one of {|Evans|}' finest moments, with the gently swinging theme leading into a strong, if restrained, solo from {|Israels|}. Over {|Bunker|}'s sensitive brush work, {|Evans|} comments briefly and beautifully on the theme before returning to the head. The band's readings of such classics as {|'Round Midnight,|} {|Stella By Starlight,|} and {|All the Things You Are|} are wonderful, but it is the lesser-known tracks, such as {|Swedish Pastry|} and the aforementioned {|Isn't It Romantic,|} that makes this recording so valuable. {|Jazz|} is rarely as sensitive or as melodic as this. Another classic from {|Bill Evans|} and company. ~ Daniel Gioffre Less