Undercurrent

There are records we admire, and records that seem to change our state of mind. Undercurrent is one of the latter.

One of our favorite jazz albums, this intimate 1962 recording brings together pianist Bill Evans and guitarist Jim Hall in a remarkable musical conversation. With no bass or drums between them, every note seems suspended in space—each musician listening, responding and leaving room for the other.

The effect can feel almost hallucinatory. Within minutes, the music seems to slow the world around it, settling the mind into that elusive place between equanimity and creative flow. Quiet, intricate and endlessly revealing, Undercurrent is also a wonderful introduction to the singular sensitivity of Bill Evans.

Put it on when you want to disappear into what you’re doing.