Is What's New a good place to start with Bill Evans?

Yes, What's New is recommended as a starting point for new Bill Evans listeners. A contemplative blend of lush harmonies and intricate improvisation, revealing the emotional depth of jazz through delicate piano melodies. When 'What's New' was released in 1969, Bill Evans was already an established figure in jazz, following his acclaimed album 'Portrait in Jazz' from 1960. This album marked a continuation of his exploration into modal jazz and showcased his evolving style, as it featured fresh interpretations of classic standards while maintaining his signature introspective approach.

Who is What's New for?

What's New works well if you're into steady melodic exploration, serene background ambiance and reflective afternoon listening.

How many songs are on What's New?

What's New has 7 tracks, running approximately 44 minutes.

What's New

Bill Evans · 1969

44 min · 7 tracks · jazz

A contemplative blend of lush harmonies and intricate improvisation, revealing the emotional depth of jazz through delicate piano melodies.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Straight No Chaser Start here — accessible entry with immediate hook
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What's New — This title track exemplifies Evans' lyrical piano style and features a hauntingly beautiful melody that highlights the emotional core of the album.
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Autumn Leaves — Evans’ version transforms this classic into a deeply reflective piece, featuring intricate chord changes that reveal his improvisational genius.
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So What — This interpretation pays homage to Miles Davis while allowing Evans to showcase his modal improvisation techniques and distinctive rhythmic phrasing.

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 album showcases intricate piano work and lush harmonies, making it a notable entry in Evans' discography.

What we noticed

The album features a consistent use of lush chord voicings that create a rich harmonic backdrop for the piano improvisations.
Each track typically begins with a clear melodic statement before transitioning into extended improvisational sections.
The tempo varies across tracks, with several pieces maintaining a slow to moderate pace, allowing for contemplative exploration of themes.

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: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

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 melodic exploration
serene background ambiance
reflective afternoon listening
ethereal piano interludes

Maybe skip if you

seeking high-energy tracks
prefer standalone singles

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Critical Peak — Showcases Bill Evans' artistic depth and is recognized for its emotional impact.
Career context: When 'What's New' was released in 1969, Bill Evans was already an established figure in jazz, following his acclaimed album 'Portrait in Jazz' from 1960. This album marked a continuation of his exploration into modal jazz and showcased his evolving style, as it featured fresh interpretations of classic standards while maintaining his signature introspective approach.
Stylistic neighbors: Chick Corea· Keith Jarrett· Herbie Hancock