The CD also contains one of the more unusual Evans configurations, the Evans-written title cut of 1962's Interplay. The LP was recorded by the quintet of Evans, trumpeter Freddie Hubbard, guitarist Jim Hall, bassist Percy Heath, and drummer Philly Joe Jones. While Evans made his name as a trio leader and it is rare to see him in this type of setting, the cut reveals his versatility. Any time you get a stellar solo by Hall followed by an impeccable excursion by Evans on the keyboard and a plainly Davis-influenced solo by Hubbard you can't go wrong.
In addition to the Evans retrospective, the release contains a bonus CD containing eight tracks from others Riverside recordings, including not only "My Foolish Heart" from the Evans trio's sessions at the Village Vanguard, but cuts from Wes Montgomery, Chet Baker, Thelonious Monk and Cannonball Adderley.
Because the Evans compilation contains only 10 tracks (not counting the one on the bonus CD) and seeks to cover the entirety of his Riverside recording careers, fans can grumble about any particular choices or omissions. Yet in that regard it does exactly what a compilation should do. It gives an introduction to the newcomer, a wonderful overview for the established fan and leaves both wanting more.
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