"Priceless Jazz: Gil Evans" is a captivating journey through the diverse landscapes of jazz, curated by the legendary Gil Evans. Released on January 1, 1998, under the Verve Reissues label, this album is a testament to Evans' mastery of various jazz genres, including cool jazz, big band, hard bop, and bebop. Spanning just under an hour, the 11-track album offers a rich tapestry of sounds that showcase Evans' innovative arrangements and compositions.
The album opens with "Where Flamingos Fly," setting the stage for a musical adventure that includes the lively "Push De Button," the romantic "Cheek To Cheek," and the exotic "La Nevada." Evans' orchestral prowess shines through in tracks like "Travelin' Light" and "Cocoanut Sweet," while "Bilbao Song" and "Aren't You Glad You're You" highlight his knack for blending different musical influences. The album concludes with the enigmatic "Napolean," leaving listeners with a sense of the extraordinary.
"Priceless Jazz: Gil Evans" is not just a collection of songs but a celebration of Evans' unique contributions to jazz. His ability to blend different styles and create something entirely new is evident throughout the album. Whether you're a longtime fan of Gil Evans or a newcomer to his work, this album offers a compelling exploration of one of jazz's most influential figures.