Eddie Gómez Trio Concert in Korea

[PERFORMANCE INTRODUCTION] Eddie Gomez, a master bassist who has performed with diverse styles across various genres from traditional jazz to free jazz, fusion, and Latin music. Among Eddie Gomez's remarkable career as both a leader and sideman alongside numerous legendary musicians, his most notable achievement is undoubtedly his tenure with the Bill Evans Trio, which laid the foundation for modern jazz piano. First meeting Bill Evans in 1966 and performing with the Bill Evans Trio for 11 years until 1977, Gomez is recorded as the longest-serving member of the group. He created numerous masterpieces with Evans, and notably, of only three bass and duo albums in Bill Evans's entire discography, all were collaborations with Eddie Gomez—a testament to Evans's absolute trust in him. This year marks the 60th anniversary of Eddie Gomez and Bill Evans's historic first meeting. Upon the recommendation of guitarist Jim Hall, Eddie Gomez and drummer Joe Hunt first met Bill Evans on April 12, 1966, at the London House in Chicago. After a two-week trial period, they embarked on tours throughout various cities in the western United States starting in May. The Bill Evans Trio's "Portraits at The Penthouse," released last year, captures a live performance from Seattle in 1966—the first album Eddie Gomez recorded with Bill Evans, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the trio. With Scott LaFaro as the early bassist, Chuck Israels as the second-period member, and Eddie Gomez representing the third era, 1966 holds special significance as a turning point for the Bill Evans Trio as it evolved with new energy and direction. This performance will feature key repertoire from the Bill Evans Trio including "Nardis," "My Foolish Heart," "My Man's Gone Now," "All the Things You Are," and "I Will Wait for You," along with "Solar," selected in commemoration of Miles Davis's 100th birthday. Furthermore, pianist Stefan Carlson, marking 30 years with the Eddie Gomez Trio this year, and Steve Pruitt, the original drummer of Snarky Puppy who delivered delicate yet dynamic performances at the 2024 Seoul Forest Jazz Festival, will join them. This performance at Seongsu Art Hall, renowned for its exceptional acoustics, will showcase the maestro's caliber through refined and lyrical performances. This concert, offering an opportunity to witness a living jazz legend in person, is a must-see for any Bill Evans fan.