Bill Evans' seminal album, Everybody Digs Bill Evans, is a masterpiece that showcases the pianist's virtuosity and innovative approach to jazz. Released in 1959 on the Riverside Records label, this iconic record features a mix of trio and solo performances, with Evans' inimitable voice shining through on every track. The album's varied tempos, rhythms, and programming sustain interest throughout, making it a favourite among Evans' followers.
With its release, Everybody Digs Bill Evans marked the beginning of Bill Evans' legendary career, following his stint with the Miles Davis Sextet alongside John Coltrane and Cannonball Adderley. The album's title, featuring tribute quotations from esteemed contemporaries, is a testament to the high regard in which Evans was held by his peers. As one of his contemporaries noted, "I've sure learned a lot from Bill Evans. He plays the piano the way it should be played."
The album's tracklist, including notable pieces such as "Minority", "Young and Foolish", and "Peace Piece", demonstrates Evans' mastery of jazz and his ability to craft captivating performances. The interaction between Evans and drummer Philly Joe Jones is particularly noteworthy, with their collaboration being hailed as equal or superior to any of Evans' later trios.
Everybody Digs Bill Evans has been widely acclaimed, featuring in Colin Larkin's "50 All-Time Overlooked Jazz Albums" and remaining a beloved classic among jazz enthusiasts. This 1959 release has been reissued on several occasions, including a 2012 limited edition remastered vinyl release on Jazz Wax Records. Bill Evans' enduring legacy is a testament to the timelessness of this album, which continues to inspire and delight audiences to this day.
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