Bill Evans

During the summers of 2004 and 2005, saxophonist Bill Evans and trumpeter Randy Brecker co-led the Soul Bop Band on tours. The music that they created was funky, heartfelt, and full of strong jazz solos. With a top-notch and versatile rhythm section comprised of guitarist Hiram Bullock, keyboardist David Kikoski, bassist Victor Bailey, and drummer Steve Smith, the sextet performed consistently stirring music. This two-CD set has plenty of heated instrumentals along with occasional ballads, all of it original music coming from either Evans, Brecker, or Bullock. Unfortunately a few of the selections have vocals from Brecker that are primitive at best and an acquired taste although the words to Bullock's "Greed" are worthy. If it were not for the singing, this two-fer would be rated higher, but it does contain some of the best playing of the era from Bill Evans and Randy Brecker, who consistently bring out the best in each other. ~ Scott Yanow, All Music Guide