Record Reviews

BILL EVANS ~ IN NORWAY: THE KONGSBERG CONCERT ELEMENTAL MUSIC 5990447 (Barcode: 8435395503935) ~ USA ~ Jazz Recorded: 1970 Released: 2024 This is another archival live album by the greatest Jazz pianist of all time, Bill EvansFind albums by this artist, recorded with his trio with bassist Eddie GomezFind albums by this artist and drummer Marty MorellFind albums by this artist. The album presents thirteen tracks, recorded on June 26, 1970, at the peak of Evans’ creative power. It features, as usual, an extended booklet with interview with Evans by Norwegian journalist / critic Randi HultinFind albums by this artist the day after the concert, reflections by Gomez, Morell and others, superb historic photographs and other background information. The album offers absolutely brilliant sound recording quality, with every little nuance perfectly audible, which of course adds the pleasure of listening to the music. As usual, the brilliant telepathic communication between the trio members prevails over everything. Evans’ trios were always an exquisite example of collective music creation, and although Evans was at the center of attention, the role of creating the music and the responsibility was equally spread between the trio members, in contrast to the usual leader / sidemen formula. These recordings, made with his longest lasting trio (six years 1968-1974), show Evans at his best, full of lyricism and sophisticated delicate touch on the keyboard. Gomez’s incredible support on the bass is absolutely stunning, a true soul brother and musical companion to Evans, as is the intricate playing by Morell. Overall, this is a wonderful addition to the Bill Evans recorded legacy. For the many Evans’ followers it is of course a must, and although it does not reveal anything previously not captured on record, it is certainly a superb piece of Jazz history.

Updated: 05/01/2025Posted: 05/01/2025

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