Although this 1998 CD may at first glance seem to be a reissue, all but three of the 11 selections had never been released before. The highly influential pianist
Bill Evans is heard in five different settings. An unissued (and slightly earlier rendition) of the third section of
George Russell's "All About Rosie" (a showcase for
Evans with
Russell's 14-piece orchestra) starts off the release. Next are the three previously issued but somewhat obscure numbers: a live rendition of "My Funny Valentine" with
Miles Davis in 1958 (played by just a quartet) and two songs from a 1962 set headed by vibraphonist
Dave Pike. For
Piano Player, producer
Orrin Keepnews discovered and released six long-lost selections from 1970: duets by
Evans (who also plays a little bit of electric piano) and bassist
Eddie Gomez that are strong enough to make one wonder why the projects was originally abandoned. Wrapping up the intriguing set is a trio number (with
Evans,
Gomez, and drummer
Marty Morell) that is an alternate take left over from
The Bill Evans Album. The pianist's fans will definitely want this consistently enjoyable CD. ~ Scott Yanow