What does Symbiosis sound like?

An intricate dialogue of piano and orchestral textures that blends serenity with rhythmic complexity. Rooted in post-bop and cool jazz. Start with "Symbiosis: Ia. Moderato - Various Tempi".

Is Symbiosis a good place to start with Bill Evans?

Yes, Symbiosis is recommended as a starting point for new Bill Evans listeners. An intricate dialogue of piano and orchestral textures that blends serenity with rhythmic complexity. By 1974, Bill Evans was already an established figure in jazz, known for his innovative harmonic approach. 'Symbiosis' marked a significant departure from his previous trio work, as it featured orchestrated arrangements and a collaborative effort with composer Claus Ogerman, showcasing a new direction in Evans' artistic expression.

Who is Symbiosis for?

Symbiosis works well if you're into steady pacing for deep focus, cerebral exploration of sound and gradual build to conclusion.

How many songs are on Symbiosis?

Symbiosis has 5 tracks, running approximately 41 minutes.

Symbiosis

Bill Evans · 1974

41 min · 5 tracks · jazz

An intricate dialogue of piano and orchestral textures that blends serenity with rhythmic complexity.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Symbiosis: Ia. Moderato - Various Tempi Start here — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its fluid melodic lines and complex harmonies, establishing the thematic depth that characterizes the entire work.
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Symbiosis: Ib. Moderato - Various Tempi — The interplay between piano and strings creates a rich tapestry of sound that exemplifies the album's exploration of texture and mood, enhancing the listener's experience.
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Symbiosis: IIa. Largo - Andante - Maestoso - Largo — Building on themes introduced earlier, this track features a powerful climax that showcases Evans' emotive playing alongside lush orchestral backing, highlighting his lyrical prowess.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

75 /100

Alpine

Higher than 98% of albums we've rated

The album showcases intricate compositions and orchestration that blend jazz with classical elements effectively.

What we noticed

The album consists of five interconnected movements, each exploring varying tempos and dynamics within a classical-jazz fusion framework.
Piano and orchestral instruments engage in a call-and-response style, creating a rich dialogue that shifts between serene passages and rhythmic complexity.
Each movement is structured with distinct sections, allowing for thematic development while maintaining cohesion across the entire work.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 7/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 9/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. 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 pacing for deep focus
cerebral exploration of sound
gradual build to conclusion
intricate melodies for contemplation

Maybe skip if you

seekers of instant gratification
prefer upbeat, fast tempos

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Experimental — 'Symbiosis' features ambitious orchestration, marking a departure from Evans' trio work.
Career context: By 1974, Bill Evans was already an established figure in jazz, known for his innovative harmonic approach. 'Symbiosis' marked a significant departure from his previous trio work, as it featured orchestrated arrangements and a collaborative effort with composer Claus Ogerman, showcasing a new direction in Evans' artistic expression.
Stylistic neighbors: Chick Corea· Keith Jarrett· Herbie Hancock