Bill Frisell, Ron Carter, Paul Motian

Recorded over two days in February 2005 at Avatar Studios in New York, this self-titled album by Bill Frisell, Ron Carter, and Paul Motian is a testament to the power of spontaneous collaboration among jazz masters. Guitarist Bill Frisell, known for his innovative approach to American roots music, joins forces with bassist Ron Carter, a legendary figure from Miles Davis' iconic 60s bands, and drummer Paul Motian, celebrated for his work with Bill Evans and his own influential ensembles.

The album, released on Nonesuch Records in August 2006, is a captivating journey through the realms of jazz, jazz fusion, and free jazz. With a running time of over an hour, the ten-track album showcases the trio's exceptional chemistry and individual virtuosity. Frisell's guitar work is as evocative as ever, drawing from a wide range of influences and techniques, while Carter's bass playing is both steady and inventive, and Motian's drumming is as nuanced and expressive as ever.

The album opens with "Eighty One," setting the stage for a collection that includes standards like "You Are My Sunshine" and "I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry," as well as original compositions and lesser-known gems. Each track offers a unique perspective on the trio's collaborative process, with Frisell, Carter, and Motian pushing each other to explore new sonic territories. The album also features an EP with four additional tracks, available for download.

This album is a remarkable document of a historic meeting of minds, capturing the essence of live jazz performance in the studio. Whether you're a longtime fan of Bill Frisell, Ron Carter, or Paul Motian, or a newcomer to their music, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.