The best Gil Evans albums

12 records, ordered by how much we can tell you about each one — not by chart position.

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Out of the Cool

Out of the Cool

1961

Captures Gil Evans' signature orchestral style with rich textures and dynamic interplay, providing a cohesive listening experience for newcomers.

  1. 1
    Heroes

    Heroes

    1991

    A rich tapestry of orchestral textures intertwines with improvisational jazz, creating a vibrant auditory landscape.

  2. 2
    Golden Hair

    Golden Hair

    1989

    A rich tapestry of orchestral jazz exploring modal harmonies and intricate arrangements with a sense of expansive freedom.

  3. 3
    The Gil Evans Orchestra Plays the Music of Jimi Hendrix

    The Gil Evans Orchestra Plays the Music of Jimi Hendrix

    1975

    A lush orchestral reimagining of rock classics, blending jazz improvisation with the psychedelic nuances of Hendrix's music.

  4. 4
    Svengali

    Svengali

    1973

    A lush orchestration melds intricate harmonies with exploratory improvisation, creating a rich tapestry of sound that defines modern jazz.

  5. 5
    New Bottle Old Wine

    New Bottle Old Wine

    1958

    A lush orchestral tapestry weaves intricate arrangements with soulful improvisations, capturing the essence of jazz innovation.

  6. 6
    Into the Hot

    Into the Hot

    1962

    An adventurous blend of orchestral textures and improvisational jazz that pushes the boundaries of traditional jazz forms.

  7. 7
    Out of the Cool

    Out of the Cool Start here

    1961

    A lush orchestration of cool jazz textures interweaves improvisational freedom with evocative melodies and rich harmonic explorations.

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    There Comes a Time

    There Comes a Time

    1976

    A lush orchestration melds intricate jazz improvisation with a cinematic sweep, showcasing Evans' innovative arrangements.

  9. 9
    Gil Evans & Ten

    Gil Evans & Ten

    1958

    A lush orchestration of cool jazz, blending intricate arrangements with emotive solos and rich harmonies.

  10. 10
    The Individualism of Gil Evans

    The Individualism of Gil Evans

    1964

    Orchestral jazz arrangements blend intricate harmonies with rhythmic complexity, showcasing a unique interpretation of modern jazz forms.

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    Paris Blues

    Paris Blues

    1988

    A lush tapestry of orchestral arrangements interwoven with intricate jazz improvisations that evoke the spirit of Paris.

  12. 12
    Great Jazz Standards

    Great Jazz Standards

    1959

    Innovative orchestral arrangements breathe new life into classic jazz standards with lush textures and intricate harmonies.