Affinity

Recorded in 1978 with the legendary jazz harmonica player and composer Toots Theilemans("Bluesette"), this album represents several "firsts" for Bill Evans. These are his first versions of Paul Simon's beautiful "I Do It For Your Love", and the standard "Days of Wine and Roses" (Not counting the "V.I.P Theme" muzak record)- -two tunes that stayed firmly in the trio's repertoire till the very end. It is also the first Evans release to feature bassist extraordinaire Marc Johnson. This is an essential album -- and some of Evans' most inspired later-period playing. His use of the electric piano on some tracks blends beautifully with Toot's warm melodicism, egging Bill on to some stunning work as an accompanist and soloist -- and the two jazz masters are in rare form throughout. "Affinity" can also boast of one of the most fluid and creatively soulful recorded versions of the classic "Body and Soul" in all of jazz.Theilemans later regarded the sessions for "Affinity" as his favorite!

This is a departure from the usual Bill Evans sound in that he has Toots Thielemans on Harmonica, Larry Schneider Tenor and Soprano Sax; Alto Flute. But still a good CD although I'd not advise it for someone just getting into Bill Evans. Pieces like; I do it for your Love, The Days Of Wine And Roses and Blue And Green are featured along with other selections.

I know that this is going to sound ridiculous, but this music is so hauntingly beautiful that it makes me really depressed.The harmonica playing is just so gorgeous on so many of the songs with a perfect amount of reverb and Evans piano playing is equally hypnotic. The song Tomato Kiss doesn't fit in with the rest of the set and should have been replaced by another ballad. There is also an annoying sax player on a couple numbers.

great CD....Bill Evans....Toots Thielmann.....what could be better?

I don't understand - I already reviewed this album. GREAT!

What a jem!! or Gem !! wherever you are- this is true blues from one of the masters- with great pals to play with.Despite the age of the recording, the sound remastered is a cracker. The highest recommendation is the only choice.

Bill Evans is in a class of his own. Pairing him with Toots was genius. I dig it. Over and over again.

Bill and Toots....what's not to like? Can't believe it took us this many years to "discover" this sublime album. Simply gorgeous music!!

eccellente, very good!Francesco

Ottima session , ben registrato .Due musicisti talentuosi

Sound ok aber ging schnell kaputt

Album consigliato, da non perdere un duetto di altissimo livello anzi aggiungo non è assolutamente scontato, vi convincerà. Un'opera d'arte .

Intéressant, mais sans plus