Bill Evans Trio plus Lee Konitz & Charles Mingus Sextet: European Nights 1964-1971 / DVD Video

UPC 8436028695423

Product Details:

• Label: Impro-Jazz
• Format: DVD, DVD-Video
• Country: EU
• Released: 2008
• Duration: 52:12 min

Overview

European Nights 1964-1971 is a captivating DVD compilation that showcases rare performances from two of the most influential jazz figures of the 20th century: pianist Bill Evans and bassist Charles Mingus. The footage, filmed during European tours in the late 1960s and early 1970s, features live concert performances and TV show appearances that highlight the improvisational brilliance of both artists and their ensembles.

Charles Mingus, known for his powerful compositions and distinctive bass playing, is featured in his sextet alongside renowned musicians like Charles McPherson, Bobby Jones, Jaki Byard, and Dannie Richmond. The sextet's performances in Copenhagen (1970) and Stuttgart (1971) demonstrate Mingus' unique blend of jazz and activism, particularly with his iconic compositions such as Pithecantropus Erectus and Mingus, Mingus, Mingus.

Bill Evans, celebrated for his innovative harmonic style and lyrical piano technique, is featured in multiple performances, including his trio sessions with Niels-Henning Ørsted Pedersen and Alian Dawson. Notably, Evans plays alongside alto saxophonist Lee Konitz in Stockholm (1965), bringing a fresh and intimate collaboration to the stage. The DVD also includes Evans performing solo in New York, with a moving rendition of Gershwin's I Loves You Porgy as a bonus track.

This collection includes rare footage never before released on DVD, preserving the musical genius of two jazz legends. Though the quality of the footage reflects the era, modern restoration efforts ensure a clear and authentic viewing experience.

Tracklist:

1. Pithecantropus Erectus - Charles Mingus (8:50)
2. Mingus, Mingus, Mingus - Charles Mingus (6:15)
3. Blues - Traditional (9:32)
4. What's New - Burke-Haggart (3:03)
5. How Deep Is The Ocean - Irving Berlin (7:52)
6. Beautiful Love - Young-King-Van Alstyne (3:37)
7. My Foolish Heart - Washington-Young (5:00)
8. Emily - Mandel-Mercer (4:32)
   Bonus:
9. I Loves You Porgy - George & Ira Gershwin (3:27)

Key Credits:

• Charles Mingus Sextet: Charles Mingus (bass), Eddie Preston (trumpet), Charles McPherson (alto sax), Bobby Jones (tenor sax), Jaki Byard (piano), Dannie Richmond (drums)
• Bill Evans Trio: Bill Evans (piano), Niels-Henning Ørsted Pedersen (bass), Alian Dawson (drums), with guest Lee Konitz (alto sax)
• Filming Locations: Copenhagen (1970), Stuttgart (1971), Stockholm (1965), New York (1969)
• DVD Release Year: 2008