"...It Was Beauty" (feat. Alex Claffy, Ben Wolfe, Donald Edwards, Eric Revis & Luques Curtis)

Orrin Evans has emerged over the last few decades, seemingly by sheer force of will. The busy Philadelphia-based pianist has released a steady stream of albums with a variety of different projects (most notably Captain Black, Tarbaby, and his trio) while also producing and playing on those of others. Here, on his 20th album as a leader, Evans moves from iconic covers to gospel tunes to jazz standards; he also delves into originals by contemporaries and sidemen as well as a few of his own songs. As he works in a trio format with drummer Donald Edwards and four alternating bassists, the music is often more contemplative than Evans is known for. An elegant version of the gospel tune “My Tribute” and the pensive take on Hoagy Carmichael’s “Rocking Chair” are particularly noteworthy. When the tempos pick up, you get the near-mystical searching of “Black Elk Speaks” and a bouncing and melodic playfulness on Ornette Coleman’s “Blues Connotation.” Seemingly offering something for everyone, …It Was Beauty shows a versatility that only enhances the stature of this important young artist.