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Recorded live at the Montreux Jazz Festival in 1970, Montreux II captures Bill Evans leading one of his most responsive and dynamic trios. Joined by bassist Eddie Gómez and drummer Marty Morell, Evans moves through original compositions, standards and extended improvisations with the lyrical touch and harmonic imagination that made him one of modern jazz’s most influential pianists.
The concert followed Evans’ acclaimed 1968 appearance at the same festival, but the character of this performance is notably different. Gómez’s agile, highly melodic bass playing frequently moves into the foreground, while Morell supplies a flexible rhythmic foundation capable of shifting from restrained accompaniment to forceful interaction. Together, the musicians create an intimate yet energetic trio sound.
After a brief introduction, “Very Early” develops from its graceful central melody into an expansive group performance. “34 Skidoo” highlights the trio’s rhythmic precision, while Evans’ interpretation of Burt Bacharach and Hal David’s “Alfie” transforms the familiar song into a spacious and deeply reflective jazz ballad.
The second side opens with Earl Zindars’ “How My Heart Sings,” gradually building from delicate piano phrases into more animated exchanges between the three musicians. “Israel” introduces a harder rhythmic edge, followed by the romantic standard “I Hear a Rhapsody.” The album closes with “Peri’s Scope,” an Evans composition distinguished by its flowing melody, intricate harmonic movement and lively interaction between piano, bass and drums.
Montreux II presents Bill Evans at a particularly creative point in his career, combining his familiar introspection with moments of considerable rhythmic power and spontaneity. This Klimt edition presents the complete performance on limited translucent blue vinyl in a gatefold sleeve.
Track listing:
Side A
A1. Introduction
A2. Very Early
A3. 34 Skidoo
A4. Alfie
Side B
B1. How My Heart Sings
B2. Israel
B3. I Hear a Rhapsody
B4. Peri’s Scope
