Waltz for Debby originally released on Riverside in 1962 was the fourth and last album by the Bill Evans Trio composed of Evans, bassist Scott LaFaro, and drummer Paul Motian. Recorded in 1961 live at the Village Vanguard in New York City, the album captures the trio at their creative peak—just days before LaFaro’s untimely death at age 25.
The unit, one of the most inventive and groundbreaking in modern jazz fundamentally reshaped the piano trio format. Rather than the piano leading with rhythm section support, all three musicians interact as equals, constantly responding to one another, engaging in a fluid, conversational style.
The six tracks heard on Waltz for Debby, are drawn from different sets recorded that afternoon and evening and became the second album released from the session. Sunday at the Village Vanguard came first and was not designed as a selection of the days “best work” but instead tended-through Evan’s choice to feature LaFaro’s solos and compositions.
Widely regarded as a cornerstone of modern jazz Waltz for Debby’s quiet intensity offers a balanced and immersive portrait of the trio’s artistry. Its nuanced interplay, and ambient club atmosphere complete with clinking glasses and murmured conversations create the feeling of being present in the room.
Together with Sunday at the Village Vanguard, Waltz for Debby represents a defining summit of the genre.
Cut directly from the original analog master tapes, through our unique all valve 1965 Ortofon / Lyrec vinyl cutting system in stereo. No equalisation, compression or any other processing was added during the cutting process.
All sleeve artwork made by hand and authentically letter-pressed on a 1963 Heidelberg SB.
This edition of 345 copies is priced at £395.00 UK pounds. Order here.
