This collection, a triumph in the careers of both Tony Bennett and Bill Evans, was made at a time when these masters each seemed in relative decline. Bennett, considered of limited audience appeal in the heady adolescence of rock, was without a major-label contract while Evans, then well into his second decade of leading a trio, was often accused of having grown too comfortable in a familiar format. Whether lack of commercial pressures freed Bennett to embark on his most open and vulnerable recital, or the need to find new settings presented Evans with the challenge of supporting a singer that he rarely filled on record, or both, the resulting music is some of the most heartfelt and human in that rarely entered realm where jazz and pop music merge.

Having completed his relatively brief sojourn with MGM/Verve with 1973’s Listen Easy, Tony Bennett was in the midst of forming his own label, Improv Records, when he made a deal with jazz pianist Bill Evans to cut two LPs, this one for Evans’ label, Fantasy Records, with another to follow on Improv (that would become Together Again). The singer and his collaborator (“accompanist” does not adequately describe Evans’ contribution, and in any case he received co-billing) got together in a recording studio over four days in June 1975 with no one other than producer Helen Keane and an engineer present, and quickly recorded one of the best albums of either’s career.

Craft Recordings officially re-launched Original Jazz Classics last year, reimagining the long-running reissue imprint with audiophiles and vinyl collectors in mind. Distributed by Concord Records on digital or LP, this remastered album showcases the incredible talent of two iconic musicians coming together to create a timeless collection of songs. In this remarkable collaboration, Tony Bennett’s smooth and velvety voice blends seamlessly with Bill Evans’ masterful piano playing. The result is a collection of intimate and heartfelt performances that will captivate any jazz enthusiast. The album features a mix of classic standards and lesser-known gems, all given new life through the unique interpretations of Bennett and Evans. From the romantic ballad “Young and Foolish” to the upbeat swing of “Lucky to Be Me,” each track showcases the incredible chemistry between these two legendary artists. One standout track on the album is their rendition of “Some Other Time,” which perfectly captures the bittersweet essence of lost love. Another highlight is their interpretation of “Waltz for Debby,” where Evans’ delicate piano work beautifully complements Bennett’s tender vocals. Throughout the album, both Bennett and Evans display their virtuosity as musicians, effortlessly improvising and complementing each other’s phrasing. Their deep understanding of each other’s musical sensibilities shines through in every note, creating an enchanting listening experience. With its impeccable production quality and stunning performances, The Tony Bennett / Bill Evans Album is a must-have for any jazz aficionado or fan of either artist. This timeless collaboration between two giants in the music industry will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on anyone who listens.

The Tony Bennett / Bill Evans Album (Remastered)
Tony Bennett, vocals
Bill Evans,  piano
produced by Helen Keane
recorded June 10–13, 1975 at Fantasy Studios, Berkeley
digitally remastered on digital or LP