“Yes, he is definitely the best.” – Miles Davis
In this exclusive, live concert DVD, recorded in Switzerland, the Gil Evans Orchestra features Jazz heavyweights the Brecker Bothers, Billy Cobham, Mike Manieri, &, Lew Soloff playing original compositions from Evans himself, as well as from Charles Mingus, George Gershwin, Jimi Hendrix, and Thelonious Monk. Digitally Re-Mastered and featuring multiple Bonus Features, on this DVD, entitled Gil Evans & His Orchestra, Evans’ trademark leadership of this star-studded big band results in a performance of rare quality and special historical interest.
Gil Evans is one of the most notable Jazz arrangers and composers of the 20th century. Whether conducting for Miles Davis (musicians who’ve played for Evans are the “Who’s Who” of Jazz history: Charlie Parker, Cannonball Adderley, Art Blakey, Elvin Jones, Wayne Shorter and on and on), or piling up Grammy nominations, honorary degrees and the praise of music journalists around the globe, Jazz-innovator Gil Evans’ name is synonymous with musical excellence.
Gil Evans innovative musical explorations opened new horizons for Big Band Jazz. He started his own band in his early twenties and orchestrated the exciting new sound of the Claude Thornhill Orchestra in the 1940s. He also worked on Bob Hope’s radio show, and wrote arrangements for singers Pearl Bailey, Tony Bennett, Johnny Mathis, and Peggy Lee among others. His unique arranging style and use of instruments rarely heard in Jazz, like the French horn and tuba, were key elements in creating the landmark album Birth of Cool with Miles Davis, Gerry Mulligan, and John Lewis. The special Evans/Davis rapport flowered into unforgettable records such as Miles Ahead, Porgy & Bess, and Sketches of Spain, and has become an indelible part of American Jazz heritage.
Song Selections:
- Hotel Me
- Friday the 13th,
- Copenhagen Sights
- Stone Free
- Waltz
- Variation on the Misery
- Gone
- Orange Was The Color of Her Dress, Then Blue Silk
- Eleven
- Here Comes De Honey Man
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