This release presents the complete original Bill Evans album Interplay (Riverside RLP9445).
The dates showcased the pianist with several great players, including trumpeter Freddie Hubbard, guitarist Jim Hall, bassist Percy Heath, and drummer Philly Joe Jones. Evans and Freddie Hubbard had both participated Oliver Nelson’s wonderful 1961 LP The Blues and the Abstract Truth, and in April of 1962 they would both play the Benny Golson LP Pop + Jazz = Swing.
Interplay marked their third and final recorded collaboration. The only known alternate take from the sessions, as well as a complete date taped the following month with a similar formation (but with saxophonist Zoot Sims in place of Hubbard), have been added as a bonus.
BILL EVANS, piano FREDDIE HUBBARD, trumpet JIM HALL, guitar PERCY HEATH, bass PHILLY JOE JONES, drums.
Recorded Nola Penthouse Studio, New York, July 16 & 17, 1962.
*BONUS TRACKS: Same personnel as above except Zoot Sims (tenor sax) replaces Hubbard & Ron Carter (bass) replaces Heath.
Nola Penthouse Studio, New York, August 21, 1962.
