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Bill Evans: Explorations
Bill Evans
piano1929 - 1980
Since 1961, Explorations has been reissued in numerous formats in the United States, Japan, and the United Kingdom, on both CD and vinyl. It probably makes some sense to focus on the reasons for this reissue, presumably different because it is a "one step" pressing that comes much closer in sound quality to the original master tape. This in the "Small Batch Series," by Craft Recordings, an in-house label of Concord Group, which, in turn, was the successor to the Fantasy Label group. The basic selling point, at least among audiophiles and collectors, is sonic, although any limited release (and this series is 2,500 pressings) is apt to be viewed as a collectors' item and, depending on market demand, a potential investment as well. There are listeners—more than a few—who are simply crazy about Bill Evans, especially his celebrated trio with
Paul Motian
drums1931 - 2011
Scott LaFaro
bass1936 - 1961
First, of course, is what a listener hears. There are different ways of evaluating recordings, and people will have different preferences regarding instrumental balance, pitch, timbre. This one must be left to the listener, but at minimum, the sound quality is simply wonderful—no surface noise or distortion, even using a modest system and turntable—far from audiophile equipment standards. Listening to Evans is like walking into a special place. If the piano is not hushed and consequently, ringing out, the recording will not be true to Evans' touch. A second consideration is how easily can one follow the interaction between La Faro and Evans, which is so much of the novelty. On this score, again, exemplary. And then there is the physical production, which includes an all-analog mastering by Bernie Grundman, a foil-stamped linen wrapped slipcase, and new liner notes—unfortunately a bit difficult to read because of the font. That aside, anyone should be happy.
There is not much new to be said about the music, although repeated listening can always be fruitful. Listening to Evans on "Sweet and Lovely" suggests an ironic approach amplified by dissonances—a sense of humor from Evans that has been all too easy to miss.
All in all, a very worthwhile production for listeners serious about hearing Evans as he should have always been heard. ">
Track Listing
Israel; Haunted Heart; Beautiful Love" [Take 2]; Elsa; Nardis; How Deep Is the Ocean?; I Wish I Knew; Sweet and Lovely.
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Album information
Title: Explorations | Year Released: 2025 | Record Label: Craft Recordings
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