Autumn Leaves cover

Autumn Leaves

Bill Evans

56 min · 10 tracks · jazz

Subtle interplay of piano and bass evokes a contemplative atmosphere, blending intricate melodies with a cool, introspective jazz sensibility.

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Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Emily Start here — Opening with delicate piano lines, this track encapsulates Evans' lyrical approach to melody, setting a reflective tone for the entire album.
  • →
    Round Midnight — Evans’ interpretation of this classic showcases his unique harmonic choices and ability to convey deep emotion through improvisation.
  • →
    Autumn Leaves — This rendition stands out for its lush harmonies and intricate arrangement, highlighting Evans' masterful touch and sensitivity to melody.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

Instrumental
67 /100
Alpine
Higher than 91% of albums we've rated

The interplay of piano and bass creates a contemplative atmosphere with strong melodic exploration.

What we noticed

  • The album features a consistent use of piano and bass, with the piano often taking the lead while the bass provides subtle harmonic support.
  • Each track is characterized by extended improvisation, allowing for intricate melodic exploration and interaction between the musicians.
  • The tempo varies across tracks, but most maintain a relaxed pace that encourages contemplation rather than urgency.
Composition 25% of the score
8/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
7/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady melodic contemplations throughout
  • introspective moments for reflection
  • for evening relaxation
  • delicate harmonies inviting deep listening

Maybe skip if you

  • seekers of upbeat tempos
  • prefer short, standalone tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Critical Peak — Represents a significant artistic moment in Evans' career with lasting influence.
Career context
Released in 1966, Autumn Leaves marked Bill Evans' return to the studio after a brief hiatus following the death of his longtime bassist, Scott LaFaro. This album is a significant entry in Evans' discography as it showcases his evolving style while maintaining the melodic intimacy that characterized his earlier work. It also reflects a period of personal reflection and artistic maturation for Evans.
Stylistic neighbors
Chick Corea· Keith Jarrett· Herbie Hancock
New to Bill Evans? Find your way in →

Tracklist

  • 1 Emily Start here 5:50
  • 2 A Sleeping Bee 5:00
  • 3 Alfie 5:31
  • 4 Who Can I Turn To 6:00
  • 5 Very Early 4:54
  • 6 Round Midnight 6:59
  • 7 Autumn Leaves 5:11
  • 8 Quiet Now 5:30
  • 9 Come Rain Or Come Shine 5:07
  • 10 Nardis 6:52

What to play next

The Paris Concert: Edition Two
Listen next

The Paris Concert: Edition Two

Continues the introspective jazz vibe with rich piano and bass interplay.
Bill Evans at Town Hall
Go back to

Bill Evans at Town Hall

Sets a similar tone with intricate melodies and a contemplative atmosphere.
Full Bill Evans discography Where to start with Bill Evans Artists like Bill Evans
cool jazz modal jazz post-bop

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata