Artist: Enrico Pieranunzi Album: Evans Remembered

Year: 2008
Duration: 0:0-1

Enrico Pieranunzi’s Evans Remembered: A Critical Review

Jazz pianist Enrico Pieranunzi has played alongside the likes of Chet Baker, Charlie Haden, and Phil Woods, solidifying his reputation as a master in the jazz scene. On Evans Remembered, Pieranunzi pays tribute to yet another jazz legend, Bill Evans. The album features nine tracks, all dedicated to the late pianist. In this critical review, we’ll delve into the album’s highlights and analyze Pieranunzi's musical choices.

Evans Remembered is a work of art that showcases Pieranunzi's deep appreciation for Evans and his influence on Pieranunzi's music. The album offers a moody and introspective sound, similar to that of Evans's iconic style. Pieranunzi's music pays homage to Evans without feeling derivative, and he brings his own unique twist to each track.

The first track on the album, “Time Remembered,” begins with a slow piano solo that is both haunting and mesmerizing. Pieranunzi's delicate touch and refined phrasing give the piece a melancholic quality that captures the essence of Evans. The track serves as an excellent introduction to the album, setting the moody and introspective tone that is present throughout.

Another standout track on the album is “Up with the Lark.” Pieranunzi slows down the tempo of the piece, allowing the notes to linger gently in the air. The beautiful melody and the sensitive piano work create an emotional atmosphere that is uplifting and inspiring. Pieranunzi's mastery of the piano is evident in this track, as he creates a rich and sophisticated sound that is both powerful and intricate.

One of the most innovative parts of the album is the creative use of the drums. Drummer Paul Motian provides a subtle yet evocative layer of rhythm that enhances the emotional depths of Pieranunzi's piano work. This can be heard in “Laurie,” where the drums serve as a gentle undercurrent, adding depth and texture to the piece.

While Evans Remembered is an impressive album, it is not without flaws. The album is a little too safe, lacking in innovation and experimentation. Pieranunzi follows Evans's structure closely, creating pieces that, while emotionally charged, don't offer much new ground in terms of jazz music. However, this criticism is only a minor quibble, as Evans Remembered does an outstanding job of honoring the legacy of one of the most important jazz pianists of all time.

Enrico Pieranunzi's Evans Remembered is an excellent tribute to Bill Evans, a jazz legend who left an indelible mark on jazz music. Pieranunzi's piano work is outstanding throughout the album, and the drums add subtle yet effective layers of rhythm to the pieces. While the album could have used a little more experimentation, it does an excellent job of capturing the emotional and moody qualities of Evans's music. Fans of jazz and Evans's work should definitely give this album a listen, as it is both a heartfelt tribute and an excellent addition to the jazz canon.

Enrico Pieranunzi's Evans Remembered is an excellent tribute to Bill Evans, a jazz legend who left an indelible mark on jazz music. Pieranunzi's piano work is outstanding throughout the album, and the drums add subtle yet effective layers of rhythm to the pieces. While the album could have used a little more experimentation, it does an excellent job of capturing the emotional and moody qualities of Evans's music. Fans of jazz and Evans's work should definitely give this album a listen, as it is both a heartfelt tribute and an excellent addition to the jazz canon.