There are two famous jazzmen named Bill Evans, and both are known for having collaborated with one of the best ever, Miles Davis. For this 2019 concert at the legendary New Morning venue in Paris, it is the saxophonist Bill Evans, not the iconic pianist, who brings together his group, Skykillers, for a groove-fuelled and energetic performance.
With dozens and dozens of records to his name, Evans is a veteran in the truest sense and a run-down of his collaborators reads like a hall of fame list: Herbie Hancock, John McLaughlin (who he joined as part of the famous Mahavishnu Orchestra), Willie Nelson, Mick Jagger and, of course, Miles …
With stellar accompanists, Evans deploys a style that is versatile while remaining rooted in the muscular jazz-groove and bluesy jazz-rock that emerged during the fusion era. The repertoire is full of original compositions, with a particular highlight being “Jean-Pierre,” the Miles Davis release upon which Evans made his most enduring contribution to the jazz saxophone – a riff that has become standard practice for all budding players.
