Portrait in Jazz
Bill Evans · 1959
52 min · 11 tracks · jazz
Intimate and introspective, this album weaves intricate piano lines through lush harmonies, embodying the essence of cool jazz.
Top tracks — play these first
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Come Rain or Come Shine Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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Autumn Leaves (take 1 stereo) — This track exemplifies Evans' lyrical playing style combined with rich harmonic textures, creating a reflective atmosphere that defines the album's mood.
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Blue in Green (take 3) — Evans' interpretation of this standard showcases his ability to evoke deep emotion through subtle dynamics and intricate phrasing, leaving a lasting impact on jazz composition.
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What Is This Thing Called Love? — With its playful yet sophisticated arrangement, this track highlights Evans' unique ability to blend traditional jazz elements with innovative improvisation.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalThe album's intricate arrangements and improvisational depth highlight Evans' innovative approach to jazz.
What we noticed
- The album features intricate piano lines that often intertwine with subtle bass and drum accompaniment, creating a rich harmonic texture.
- Each track is characterized by extended improvisation, with the piano taking the lead while the rhythm section provides a supportive backdrop.
- Composition 25% of the score
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8/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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9/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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8/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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 explorations throughout
- contemplative background for reflection
- intricate piano melodies to savor
- evening listening with subtle rhythms
Maybe skip if you
- seeks high-energy party tracks
- prefers instant gratification songs
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Breakthrough — This album solidified Evans' reputation in the cool jazz movement.
- Career context
- Released in early 1959, Portrait in Jazz marked a significant moment in Bill Evans' career as his first studio album after joining the iconic Miles Davis sextet. This period showcased Evans' innovative approach to jazz, particularly his pioneering use of modal harmony, which would later influence countless musicians.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Chick Corea· Keith Jarrett· Herbie Hancock
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Autumn Leaves (take 1 stereo)
The transition into the bridge introduces a striking shift in tempo and mood, mirroring the complexities of nostalgia and longing.
Tracklist
- 1 Come Rain or Come Shine Start here 3:20
- 2 Autumn Leaves (take 1 stereo) 5:59
- 3 Autumn Leaves (take 2 monaural) 5:24
- 4 Witchcraft 4:35
- 5 When I Fall in Love 4:55
- 6 Peri's Scope 3:14
- 7 What Is This Thing Called Love? 4:35
- 8 Spring Is Here 5:07
- 9 Someday My Prince Will Come 4:55
- 10 Blue in Green (take 3) 5:25
- 11 Blue in Green (take 2) 4:29
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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