This is a tough one. Incredible musicians, iconic performances. But still, only one jazz team can take home the imaginary prize in our Jazz Faceoff, and it’s up to you to decide the winner.
As befits the season, the song today is “Autumn Leaves.” We pit the deep, soulful Julian "Cannonball" Adderley/Miles Davis version against the sprightly and incisive interpretation by the Bill Evans Trio.
First, from the landmark album by Adderley, 1958’s Somethin' Else, an iconic Blue Note Records date. Davis is quietly devastating. Adderley holds the whole world in his horn. Pianist Hank Jones is the master of the right note at the right time. The cumulative effect is nearly 11 minutes of beauty.
In the other corner, the Bill Evans Trio from 1959's Portrait in Jazz, and what begins as a brisk, autumnal dance through the song, quickly spinning into a conversation between Evans and bassist Scott LaFaro, tenderly punctuated by some remarks by Paul Motian. Then the three take off in one of those definitive, "oh, so this is what a jazz trio is all about" moments.
Go ahead and cast your vote. Imaginary bonus points if you explain why you made your choice!
Related:
Jazz Faceoff, the violin edition: Joe Venuti vs. Stéphane Grappelli
Jazz Faceoff: Sarah Vaughan vs Ella Fitzgerald
Jazz Faceoff: Hank Jones vs. Chick Corea
Jazz Faceoff: Dave Young vs. Eddie Gomez
Stories and standards: ‘Autumn Leaves’