Description
Join master pianist Chick Corea as he leads original Bill Evans alumni - bassist Eddie Gomez and the late drummer Paul Motian - on 'Further Explorations', a two-CD live set of 19 tracks that examines Bill Evan's piano trio aesthetic. The spirit of Evans comes alive thanks to the vibrant simpatico shared by these three master musicians.
Produced by Corea, 'Further Explorations' was recorded May 4-17, 2010, live at the Blue Note in New York City. In preparation, Corea, Gomez and Motian examined the entire Bill Evans discography. Rather than approach the music as a tribute, his material provides more of a template. Each musician also contributes original material. The results are inspired, as this elevated piano trio plays with near-telepathic empathy and a remarkable blend of ingenuity and emotional depth.
Sadly, Paul Motian died on November 22, 2011. He was a member of the first Bill Evans Trio, with Scott LaFaro on bass. This was the most influential progressive piano trio in jazz at the time. "I loved playing with Chick and Eddie during our two-week stay at the Blue Note," said Motian. "It was two weeks of great music, friendship and tribute. This CD is a true reflection of that."
Personnel: Chick Corea (piano), Eddie Gomez (bass), Paul Motian (drums)