Hi Ruth! Thank you so much for your comment! It came at just the right time, because I was feeling down at not being able to get my current review to my satisfaction. Everything has to be right for me. The information, my delivery and energy, lighting and appearance. Today was just one of those days where it wasn't coming together! Your comment helped me realize quality is more important than quantity. I'm going to try my current subject on another day. Please stay with me!
This and Waltz make my list of best reissues for the year. I also had lead out noise which I found surprising. Thankfully, both albums’ music is noise free. Happy Thanksgiving!
Damm Scott--I was going to do my version of this!!!--But again, as usual.. you knocked it out of the box--I can not add anything--so complete and accurate!.. FOLKS Please SUPPORT SCOTT!!!!!--JG
Well, thank you Jack, but another voice is always welcome. It's true there's not much more that hasn't been said about this album. I didn't feel a need to get into that aspect. Just a simple comparison and a lot of love and appreciation for this beautiful time capsule of a recording. Thank you for the call to support! It's nice to have someone else say it once in a while! Have a great day, and thank you for watching.
Scott what a great review! I couldn’t respond to it until I acquired it myself and auditioned it! I got it this morning and listen to it tonight! Twice through! I heard and agree with you about the immersive experience, and it is magical! There were a few hotspots, distortion points, with the Bass that I found throughout, but not enough to take away from the album! What I’m talking about is a sharp buzz that you can get when a note is not struck cleanly or the mixes too hot! You see, I will have a different take than many will because I learn to play bass on an upright bass! You see this isn’t an acoustic bass as it is micd or amplified to keep it even with the drums and piano! That slight distortion, which is rare is probably coming from a peak level within the board! I do think Kevin did an incredible job with maintaining the ambient noise with the music in a very thoughtful way! I’m so glad to add this to my collection, and I will enjoy it for many many years for sure! Thank you for pushing me over the edge!
Hi Matt, You chose a good one, a timeless classic! I'm not an expert on the bass or recording of course, but I always thought the little buzzes and vibrations on the bass were part of the sound or even a technique, rather than a mic overload or mastering issue. It's on every copy. I've heard this sound with other bass players too, so it must be just strings vibrating and being held down against the board in rapid movement. I think it adds to it, and don't find it an issue either. You hear this in The Ray Brown Trio Soular Energy as well. Seems a stylistic choice, as I'm sure these guys could play it more perfect and cleanly. Glad you are enjoying this classic. Did that beautiful jacket too! When I took it out of the shrink wrap I was so impressed! Great job!
Thank you, I am glad you've been enjoying the channel, and find the commentary valuable! Regarding the noise, I have it on my first copy and a replacement, but several people say they don't have it. I guess I'll be keeping the best one and try again down the road. I got mine through Amazon, so I imagine the batch my local warehouse got is all the same. It's really not so bad, I just like perfect :-)
Hi Scott, I’ve been waiting to get this album for quite a while since I started my journey into jazz two years ago. I was so excited when it was announced (along Waltz for Debby) in the OJC series that I immediately preordered it. I was blown away by the music and how good it sounds. I too noticed the lead out groove hiss which is annoying but not as much as the non-fill (or some kind of crackling) I hear on the first track. Replacement requested. Thanks for your comparison review!
Thank you for your comment Arnaldo. I'd say you made a great decision to wait and get this beautiful record. I remember my first exposure to it and how it affected me. I realized right then and there that I could get into jazz and that I loved Bill Evans! Waltz for Debby soon followed, and that was it for a while. One you might really love is his later career album You Must Believe In Spring. It was released as a Craft 45. The pressing issue is not that big a deal and my replacement had it too (A slight noise in the lead in and the described hiss on the lead out) but a few people have said they got perfect copies. I may try again down the road to get a perfect one. It deserves this.
Thank you! Had I really planned it out I could have duplicated Bill's shirt, but truth be told, this is my Chet Baker T again! Thank you for watching my friend!
Happy Thanksgiving and nice review. Great coverage on the sonics and pressing on this new OJC. Think much of the sonics a person is hearing now on this new OJC series is the recent upgrade Kevin did to his audio signal path cutting chain. Same cutting signal path used on the new Tone Poets and BN Classic series. Would agree have exact same symptom at the runout grooves on my copies on the new press. As you noted the Alto Analog copy is good. Prior to that, this title was available on the Fantasy OJC series for many years. Still have a few OJC copies. Used copies of the original OJC series have climbed substantially in price over the last few years, same with original OJC press of Waltz for Debby. The original OJCs were pressed at one of the Columbia Record plants (Terre Haute, IN or Pitman NJ). If a person really deep cleans the older OJC it helps a ton. This recording is also available in the Acoustic sounds 45 RPM box set which is quite excellent. Bill Evans was also a huge seller in Japan. Both Toshiba-EMI and Victor Music pressed this title as well all of the other Bill Evans Riverside titles. Victor Music issued this several times as an SMJ series, a VIJ series and I believe a VIJJ series as well as the Victor pressed VIJ series Bill Evans Riverside Box set (a really great find if a person can locate it, but not cheap). If I had to rank the pressings I have, would say the 45 RPM box set is first, 2nd is the new OJC cut by Kevin Gray, 3rd is the Victor Music VIJ series, 4th is the Ultra copy, 5th is original OJC series. The Riverside OGs are super hard to find in clean condition. I do not have one so can't offer any comparisons on the sonics of the OG. For pressing quality only, the Victor Music SMJ or VIJ series tops everything else. Totally silent vinyl, no vinyl noise and great resolution. Not really possible but would be something to hear a Kevin Gray Lacquer plated and pressed by Victor Music Japan!
@@ThePressingMatters NP. You did a great review on this. Bill Evans is so accessible for those who are not deep into jazz recordings or listen to mostly rock and want to dip their toes into the jazz vinyl pool.
Hi, thanks for watching and commenting! $60 is still a fair price considering the quality of this release. I'm glad you were able to get a copy and are enjoying it.
Hi Scott, many thanks for your review which I was curiously waiting for. I also do own the Alto reissue and, man, I love it a lot. I also ordered the new OJC and I am still waiting for it. Listening to your impressions and experience with that one and since it obviously also has the same cutting or pressing issues as the Waltz for Debby I probably cancel my order. For 50+ US here in Europe I would expect a better quality. A pity but luckily the Alto serves me right. Happy Thanksgiving!
Hi Thomas, I would probably do the same. The Alto is a fine record and it's pressed pretty much perfectly. I would wait until a new batch comes around and the pressing issue is resolved. The OJC does sound better but as I said it's not dramatic enough to put yourself through that if this kind of pressing issue bothers you. I'm not sure how I will proceed. I think you made the right call.
Great review Scott. I received my copy this week and I haven't had the time to listen to it yet. With Thanksgiving and work, there was no time. I really wanted to get the AP double 45 version of this album at one point and the only way to get it now is to purchase the boxset. For me, it is just too expensive so I was happy to see this version was made available. The between track noise really doesn't bother me, just as long as the music is clean and sounds good. I hope you and your family had a wonderful Thanksgiving. Cheers
Hi Brian, Luckily, it's not heard between tracks at all, just a whisper at the lead in and a louder white noise on the lead outs. The magnificent music is intact with a great mastering. You're sure to enjoy this one.
Scott awesome review I received my OJC it sounds beautiful I put it slightly over the AP 45 the instruments are more balance and that because Kevin Gray upgraded his system big time. I’ve never heard the Nick Webb version but would love too . I only have the the AP 45 and a OG mono I been told by a few friends that have the Mofi One step and they told me it still is the best . That’s interesting with the lead out segment I did have that on the Waltz for Debby but need to listen closer on this OJC
Hi Andrew, Thank you so much! You're the first that has shared any comparison with the AP 45. I've never heard it but that's really saying something! I have heard both good and bad about the MOFI. I'm sure it has its strengths, but this copy is not getting opened now that this edition is here, I'd rather sell it and put the cash toward a system upgrade.please check your lead out (and lead in carefully. It's pretty loud and immediate on the lead out. It would be encouraging to know clean copies exist.
@@ThePressingMatters great move Scott the price of that One Step you can get a very nice system upgrade just listening to the run out groove lead out yes my has it too on Sunday at the Village Vanguard it’s crazy because my AP 45 doesn’t that issue and the Waltz AP 45.
Absolutely my friend! I've heard of some delays direct from Craft. You're sure to love it. Please let me know what you heard and if you got the noise in the lead out groove. Apparently it's not on all of them.
Happy Thanksgiving to you! I listened to this release the day before Thanksgiving. Wow wow wow, I was so impressed with it that I pulled my son in the room to hear it too. 😻 He said that it was on the level of an UHQR pressing. There is light noise (nothing disturbing to me) in the dead wax of the record, but I don't hear anything in the grooves with music. Although I've known about this great release from the Bill Evans Trio for a long time, I never bought a vinyl copy of it until now. I was too busy acquiring other music. Within the last year I wanted to add a good sounding copy to my collection. I couldn't find it anywhere at an affordable price. I decided to wait for reissues of both this album and Waltz for Debby. I figured such great albums would be reissued sooner or later. Boy was the wait worth if for both albums. They're just such excellent versions. 😻
Thanks for your comments. This pressing issue is something each person has to decide if they are ok with. As you say it's not affecting the music, and the mastering sounds spectacular so it's something you can overlook or accept. So glad you are loving this release, it really is wonderful to have a great sounding reisssue generally available. Thanks for sharing your experience.
When I lived in the Silicon Valley many years ago, my then girlfriend and now wife used to go to a 1930's era place called The Hedley Club. They would play jazz there on the weekend. It was a very cozy place we'd check out after having dinner out and to get a night cap at the bar in the club while we snuggled in the comfy, plush seating. The Bill Evans Trio album is so good, it reminds me of the sound I would hear listening to live jazz in that club on cold winter nights. The only difference is that the musicians are much better on the record. When a vinyl record can produce the feeling of a truly live experience, you know that you've struck pure gold. @@ThePressingMatters
That is such a good observation and experience to share. I'm sure there are some people getting this record who have never been to a small jazz venue. They would probably be surprised that the audience and ambiance isn't hushed or quiet generally. This record captures that in a way that doesn't overwhelm the music, just gives enough of the ambiance to transport you there. I did find that this record is a great one for zeroing in speaker positioning. Moving them in and out from the back wall, width and toe in can really help here. Once it's right, the illusion is locked in and it's immersive. Dim the lights, get back in the sweet spot, and you're there, 1961 at the Village Vanguard
Amen, brother it's like a spiritual experience. For me the test for every vinyl record is how close you get to live music or if it recreates the sound of an era. This is the Hedley Club located in the Hotel De Anza: ruclips.net/video/uOWOvwHHNHI/видео.html @@ThePressingMatters
I'd recommend selling that MOFI One-Step and using the cash to buy the Bill Evans box set. That's very much well worth it, and the main reason why I haven't bothered with the OJC reissues.
Great advice, it's definitely going to be sold, along with a good chunk of other stuff. Just trying to find the time and best approach to selling this stuff. I need some cash and more shelf space! Wait, that Bull Evans box is how wide?! 😊
forgot to add there is one more US pressed version. The Fantasy 2-fers series issued in the 1970s released this title. Mastered by Turner and pressed by one of the Columbia plants. On this 2 record release you get both "Sunday" and "Waltz for Debby" on one 2 disc set. Sonics are a notch below the first OJC release but are still quite listenable. And for those on a tight budget it may be a good option. You get this two record set which contains both titles for around 25-30 USD.
I've not heard that one but I have heard others in the series. They can be quite good indeed! For years I bypassed them. Now I rarely see them. I remember both of these albums came out in a short lived Musical Heritage Society offshoot for Jazz. The jackets were unappealing but they were pressed really well and if I recall sounded nice. I had found them in a thrift shop for a dollar each, but let them go in a sale I once had. The buyer was really happy with them!
@@ThePressingMatters very cool. Most of the Fantasy 2-fers were re-issues of really hard to find OG Prestige and Riverside pressings. Speaking of MHS, a bit of a topic divergence but MHS re-issued a number of jazz titles. On the best sounding titles is a Milt Jackson title. As you noted pretty plain jacket artwork. Masterdisk performed the mastering and cut the lacquers. The vinyl was pressed by EDP (Europa Disk). Sonically these are really good. One of these jazz titles is a Milt Jackson title - don't remember the exact name but something similar to "Ain't But a few of Us Left". It is worth picking up if a person sees it. Great music and excellent sonics to boot. Has a lot of that tape type sound to it.
@mcgjohn22 I figured there might have been some others in that series. I did listen to them before I sold them and thought they did sound great, and seemed very well made. It was before I was really into jazz. The person who bought them actually called me back to thank me. He loved the sound! Now I wish I still had them!
Totally agree about the run out groove. Otherwise, this new edition is about the best SQ one could ever hope for from a $35 record. I’m sure the 2x45 in the $900 AP/QRP box sounds better. But I have to pick and choose what I splurge on. This $35 Craft edition satisfies my need for excellent SQ. I love great SQ but I love music even more, and this pressing allows me to fully enjoy this beautiful music. As usual, I loved this video and really appreciate your take, and your insights about the music and the recording.
Thank you Ron, My minorcquibble about the run out notwithstanding, this reissue is everything I hoped it would be. The SQ is so good. Nothing sounds pushed or highlighted and it gives a wonderful sense of intention that I hadn't noticed to such a degree on other pressings. By that I mean why the music unfolds the way it does, how the interplay seems with purpose - the overall vision that Bill had for this is all quite clearer. Yet at the same time feels loose and spontaneous.
I don’t have any runout groove noise on this or Watlz for Debby. Both my copies are very quiet which I’m so happy about cause RTI is a little hit or miss for me these days. I will say so far I have all the new OJC’s and they’ve all been flawless pressing wise.
That's awesome! I did hope it would disappear with a cleaning but it seems to be on at least one stamper, or batch of this title. Glad to know there are perfect ones to be had. Thanks so much for letting me know.
Nice overview, Scott. I, too, have the Alto 33 and love it (also have the One-Step - and just like you, never opened the shrink). Felt wise to keep that one intact (as I already had the AP45 version, as well.) I noticed the noise at the end of each side, as well. Will be so curious to see what other titles OJC announces soon for their next batch. Have always been wondering if Chad would team up with Craft to do a full Riverside Series run. All of those Riverside titles AP did back in the day are excellent and so far out of reach price-wise on Discogs now. Hope you and your's have a nice holiday. Cheers.
Thanks! I too think the Alto is a keeper, and I like having a few different takes on things. I thought I'd get some flack for having a sealed one step, but I'm glad you understood the reasons why and glad I'm not the only one! I'm very curious but not $900 curious. Shame about the lead outs on this. My second one was exactly the same so it's on at least one stamper. Did you have a chance to compare to the Alto. If you do I'd love your comments. Take care! Scott
I've never heard this in mono! I kind of think stereo would be essential for this one in particular to get that in the room feeling, but I could see a more cohesive mono presentation appealing too. Either way, the recording is essential and I'm glad to have a few copies of it. Thanks for watching!
@@ThePressingMatters I’ve been to the Vanguard enough to know that in person- it doesn’t sound “ stereo”. This seems to me to be to disperse. I doubt they care about my opinion. Have been listening to this since the 70’s and am thankful it exists in any form. ✌️
After I got the Alto I sold my Mob Fid one step due to the unfavorable price-performance in comparison. Hopefully I will hear of pressing improvements of the new OJC then I will definitely give it a chance too.
This was probably the best release I grabbed in 2O23. I’m so glad Craft is going back and doing these titles. I’m hoping that this year Portrait in Jazz gets released. Keep up the great work 👍
I have the lead-out noise, too, Scott. Odd. It's worse on Side 1, but both sides. I'm up changing sides as the last notes are played, so didn't hear it initially. And I really had to crank the volume. But it is odd.
It does seem odd that it's happening here and not in other Ratzi jobs like the Tone Poets. One person offered that his doesn't have it at all so perhaps one stamper is affected. By the way I loved your write up on the Genesis record. It's nice to read sprinted review sometimes where thoughts can be arranged. I might give it a try myself.
I agree about the RTI lead out noise issue. Ive had the same experience with these OJCs and the recent Atlantic 75th series where the QRP presse of Selling England was quiet as can be while RTIs of Blues n Roots was noise the last few seconds before the music even ends. I wonder what is happening there.
RTI must be rushing things because they never used to be so inconsistent. MOFI's One Steps are plagued with pressing issues. I'm really happy with QRP lately.
There will be only the two listed on the thumbnail, the new OJC and the Alto Analogue. I know you might be disappointed the One Step is not included. I'm not certain but I think I may have seen a post from you that you really liked it?
Another nice vid, this new OJC is marvelous, unfortunately the only other version I have is the original OJC. I have yet to read or see a definite comparison with the MoFi.
Thank you so much. I have not seen or read a definite comparison with the MOFI, and although I have it, I explained why that's not going to happen unfortunately. There has been a comment in this section from a viewer who's taste and hearing I trust, that said the MOFI has unnatural emphasis on Scott LaFaro's bass, which takes away from the piano and I imagine the whole balance of the ensemble. It's not the first time I've heard that either. I think I saw a video posted from a channel I'm not familiar with that has both versions in question on the thumbnail. Perhaps the reviewer there can offer some insight but I know nothing about his priorities or system recommend it either way. You probably can find it if you do a search.
Don't waste your money on the MOFI. Would be better off trying to locate a Victor Music pressing or put those funds towards the 45 RPM box set. On your original OJC pressing super clean it or US clean it to remove all the particles from the grooves and it will sound a ton better.
In your write up above I noticed you gave a shout out to Kevin Gray at Cohearant Audio. I am sure you know they just did their first release , Kirsten Edkins-Shapes and Sound. I could not find a review of this by you. If you have not heard it and reviewed it I can say I think it would be worth your time. Excellent recording, master and pressing (one of the best pressings I own, maybe the best).
I'm honestly looking forward to its arrival. It's a shame that we are far apart otherwise I would gladly lend you the LP in question .Thanks for the interesting videos of her. Have a good continuation!@@ThePressingMatters
@tizianogagliardi1998 Thank you, that's very kind of you. I do try to borrow other significant pressings where I can, but none of my associates had the version you're asking about.
I just picked this up yesterday and I don’t hear any of the white noise you mention. Don’t hear it in my copy of Waltz for Debbie either. Guess I got lucky!
You certainly did, and now I know I have to keep trying! I wonder if it's only certain stampers? If you have a chance could you give me the deadwax codes?
@@ThePressingMatters I’m pretty new to vinyl (3years into it now), so I hope I’m giving you the information you need. This is for side 1 of each album: Village Vanguard: CR00609-A2 41411.1(3) … Waltz: CR00617-A 41147.1 (3) …
@chrismckee4154 Thanks, that's exactly what I need. Let me check the Village Vanguard. I actually have two here: Same exactly here. Must have just affected some copies, perhaps an issue that developed later into the run. You are lucky! Thanks for doing that
Me 2 . To much hazzle . i have to travel to another city to return it. I keep it. Still find at this amount o money it should be perfect ..... Thanks for the video again !!!
I have an early 2000s OJC and they are nice. Haven’t heard the Alto Analog Some really like the AAA MoFi One Step - swear by it for the micro detail - like you are on the stage hearing the cues between musicians. I don’t. I think Mofi made Scott Lafaro’s bass sound way too forward and loud. It sounds 10 feet tall and is very distracting. You lose a little naturalness in the piano. My son plays upright and many times in the same room so I have a good idea of how it should sound I didn’t open my MoFi Portraits in Jazz for some reason. The AP is that good and I had an original The Analog Productions is wonderful. Perfectly balanced, warmth, detail. You are in the club and the light talking and cocktail glasses clinking come out really naturally. You can hear the waitresses setting down their trays in back. The performances even more so. So much space. The playing, telepathy at it’s best. Paul’s light brushes, the resonance of individual keys - clarity, plucking versus sustained notes, Scott’s harmonics. This AP is lovely and well worth searching out My recommendation - I know it’s a bit of a cash outlay but worth it Sell your sealed MoFi One Step for big bucks and buy the AP box while it is available - 22 sides for $900. Let me know when you sell it, so I can wait and then sell my One Step 😊
Is there somewhere i can get this shipped to Australia for less than $100aud? I'm not the biggest jazz fan so this isn't at the top of my list so $100+ is a little steep for an album im not in love with.
Amazon should have this album. Is there a Austrailian Amazon site? I would imagine that would be your best bet and cheapest price. But if you've heard the recording and are not in love with it, I would not pay $100 for it. Not that I don't think it's great, but it's a $40 record.
Finally got my hands on this record and have really enjoyed it overall. Sound quality is great and fortunately didn’t have the run-out noise issue. One thing I’m wondering about though- the percussion on Alice in Wonderland. On my system, the percussion is VERY hot on this track to the point where it’s “sizzling” noise is at some points so over-bearing and sounds distorted. Is this normal? I’m new to this album so I have no comparison, but to my taste at least the sound was unpleasant regarding the percussion. I’m unsure if this is a pressing issue, or simply this was recorded/cut really hot.
I'm playing the Alto now. I guess you mean the cymbal shimmer riding above the music. On the Alto it sounds exactly like what it is, with a nice light texture and finesse in the way it's resolved. Sounds pretty natural to me. Now Kevin's cut is different, a little more vibrant, I guess you could say hotter, and that sound is more apparent, but not objectionably so. It does sound like what it is. On my system, it doesn't become an indistinct white noise, and retains its texture and character. It's definitely more audible. I slightly prefer the Alto in this regard. It sits in the sound picture a bit better I think, but I could see some preferring the Craft OJC. Has a bit more life to it. I didn't hear it as overbearing or very hot. Perhaps it's a bit demanding cut and some minor adjustments to VTA or tracking weight might reign it in a bit Do have a listen on streaming to get some perspective . Bottom line is the OJC is cut a bit louder than my Alto, but has an arresting presence as well. It might have been the price to pay or the tape has changed a bit? Hope this helps.
@@Levi-ek4el I just heard the dreaded run out groove on my copy. It's really terrible. Might need to get a current press and return this one. It's a shame. It spoils a nice record. One tip I recall from the 'hot cut' issue with Picture of Heath Tome Poet. That was a great test record for precise setup. Joe Harley and others suggested looking at antiskate and tracking force, and it did solve the problem for a lot of people on that record.
@@ThePressingMatters a real-shame with the run-out issue, I’ve heard it on quite a few MOFI albums so must be a fairly significant problem at RTI. It really pulls you out of the experience unfortunately, especially when the music is so intimate and the rest of the playing surface is dead quiet. Cheers for the advice on tracking force and anti-skate, I’ll play around with it.
I also own the Nick Webb mastering done at Abbey Road Studios bought probably 25 years ago. The sound on that reissue is very good but not stellar. You are right: there is a lacking of harmonics around instruments and even a lacking of ambient harmonics. The sonics are a bit (if even only a bit) sterile. A digitized mastering? Who knows for sure? I'll try the new reissue by Craft. Thanks
Hi Paolo, Thank you for that information! I had no idea it was done at Abbey Road. You're going to appreciate the improvements Kevin has brought to this record. Let me know when you've heard it!
Well, that would certainly kill a record that's got piano in it. I'm sorry yours is off center. Can you exchange it? Mine is not affected this way. It's amazing how RTI is slipping in QC. The used to be so reliable foe well pressed records.
I listened to that album in the Craft Recordings edition and I can say that I'm not really impressed. It's still a live album and it was recorded the way it was recorded. I think many $25 OJC releases sound better than this. It is not at all clear to me that someone buys that album on 2LP 45RPM, and especially that they pay 1000 dollars for it? I don't want to be annoying, but maybe we should tell people the truth? Thanks for the effort and for another good video.👍
Thanks for your comment. Is the Craft your first exposure to the album? Just wondering if you found some other edition preferable? I only mention the One Step because it is absurd for me to open such a valuable album at this point. I would never pay 1,000 for any album, so I get what you're saying. There's no consensus out there that the One Step is objectively better anyway. There are certainly better recorded albums in the OJC catalog, no disagreement there. But for one who does want this unique album, a document of that day in a live setting, this does sound very good and equal to the other 33 I have, just slightly different in flavor. It's a good thing to have an affordable version of it in print that holds up to the best of prior editions, and I think that is why most are happy with it. Whether one thinks the recording is as good as something else is not what I was getting to here. Perhaps an older OJC may be good enough for this record, but unfortunately I did not have that one this time.
@@ThePressingMatters It's not my first exposure to the album, I already have the Riverside reissue from 1967 and it sounds completely different. It's darker and doesn't have as much ambience as this Kevin Gray mastering release. I actually think that in my opinion Kevin Gray may have made the mistake of adding ambience and sacrificing the sound of Bill Evans' piano. Bill`s piano sounds thin and somewhat cold. I'm not sure I like the way it sounds. In any case, thanks for the effort and the answer.👍🙂
I would never deal with them. Why? You can order from Amazon and have it on release day with easy return privileges. Sorry you are still waiting but I think you'll find it worth the wait!
I usually use Amazon for the same reasons you mentioned in your reply. I am just bringing awareness to the lousy shipping of Craft . Hopefully some one from Craft is reading these comments
Ordered mine from Elusive Disc. Arrived promptly. Like others, I usually try to avoid ordering directly from Craft due to slow shipping times. Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!
I love how flawlessly you talk about these albums!! The way described them was beautiful I loved it 🫶🏾🫶🏾
Hi Ruth!
Thank you so much for your comment! It came at just the right time, because I was feeling down at not being able to get my current review to my satisfaction. Everything has to be right for me. The information, my delivery and energy, lighting and appearance. Today was just one of those days where it wasn't coming together! Your comment helped me realize quality is more important than quantity. I'm going to try my current subject on another day. Please stay with me!
This and Waltz make my list of best reissues for the year. I also had lead out noise which I found surprising. Thankfully, both albums’ music is noise free. Happy Thanksgiving!
Thank you for watching. I'm glad uou are loving these. Me too!
Hi Scott,
Great great great video!
Awesome
My hightlight of the day.
Happy Thanksgiving 🍁 I am thankful for you.
Wow! Thank you Joey!
Damm Scott--I was going to do my version of this!!!--But again, as usual.. you knocked it out of the box--I can not add anything--so complete and accurate!.. FOLKS Please SUPPORT SCOTT!!!!!--JG
Well, thank you Jack, but another voice is always welcome. It's true there's not much more that hasn't been said about this album. I didn't feel a need to get into that aspect. Just a simple comparison and a lot of love and appreciation for this beautiful time capsule of a recording. Thank you for the call to support! It's nice to have someone else say it once in a while!
Have a great day, and thank you for watching.
Waltz for Debby and this record might both make my 2023 top ten new great records---go figure!--JG
Scott what a great review! I couldn’t respond to it until I acquired it myself and auditioned it! I got it this morning and listen to it tonight! Twice through! I heard and agree with you about the immersive experience, and it is magical! There were a few hotspots, distortion points, with the Bass that I found throughout, but not enough to take away from the album! What I’m talking about is a sharp buzz that you can get when a note is not struck cleanly or the mixes too hot! You see, I will have a different take than many will because I learn to play bass on an upright bass! You see this isn’t an acoustic bass as it is micd or amplified to keep it even with the drums and piano! That slight distortion, which is rare is probably coming from a peak level within the board! I do think Kevin did an incredible job with maintaining the ambient noise with the music in a very thoughtful way! I’m so glad to add this to my collection, and I will enjoy it for many many years for sure! Thank you for pushing me over the edge!
Hi Matt,
You chose a good one, a timeless classic! I'm not an expert on the bass or recording of course, but I always thought the little buzzes and vibrations on the bass were part of the sound or even a technique, rather than a mic overload or mastering issue. It's on every copy. I've heard this sound with other bass players too, so it must be just strings vibrating and being held down against the board in rapid movement. I think it adds to it, and don't find it an issue either. You hear this in The Ray Brown Trio Soular Energy as well. Seems a stylistic choice, as I'm sure these guys could play it more perfect and cleanly.
Glad you are enjoying this classic. Did that beautiful jacket too! When I took it out of the shrink wrap I was so impressed! Great job!
Evans was a gifted jazz pianist...looking forward to the video.
I agree, just a wonderful recording. So glad to be covering it.
Excellent analysis. I always look forward to your thoughtful commentary. I also have the lead out noise.
Thank you, I am glad you've been enjoying the channel, and find the commentary valuable!
Regarding the noise, I have it on my first copy and a replacement, but several people say they don't have it. I guess I'll be keeping the best one and try again down the road. I got mine through Amazon, so I imagine the batch my local warehouse got is all the same.
It's really not so bad, I just like perfect :-)
I have Sunday and Debby - both are great - Debby was factory scratched when I got it but made exchange and the subsequent was clean
Hi Scott, I’ve been waiting to get this album for quite a while since I started my journey into jazz two years ago. I was so excited when it was announced (along Waltz for Debby) in the OJC series that I immediately preordered it. I was blown away by the music and how good it sounds. I too noticed the lead out groove hiss which is annoying but not as much as the non-fill (or some kind of crackling) I hear on the first track. Replacement requested. Thanks for your comparison review!
Thank you for your comment Arnaldo. I'd say you made a great decision to wait and get this beautiful record. I remember my first exposure to it and how it affected me. I realized right then and there that I could get into jazz and that I loved Bill Evans! Waltz for Debby soon followed, and that was it for a while. One you might really love is his later career album You Must Believe In Spring. It was released as a Craft 45.
The pressing issue is not that big a deal and my replacement had it too
(A slight noise in the lead in and the described hiss on the lead out) but a few people have said they got perfect copies. I may try again down the road to get a perfect one. It deserves this.
Thanks!
Hi Marco! Thank you so much for sending a Super Thanks donation! I'm glad you liked this video and am grateful for your support!
Great review as always ! Your even wearing your Sunday At the Village t-shirt
Thank you! Had I really planned it out I could have duplicated Bill's shirt, but truth be told, this is my Chet Baker T again!
Thank you for watching my friend!
And I could have filmed it in sepia! Missed opportunity ;-)
Happy Thanksgiving and nice review. Great coverage on the sonics and pressing on this new OJC. Think much of the sonics a person is hearing now on this new OJC series is the recent upgrade Kevin did to his audio signal path cutting chain. Same cutting signal path used on the new Tone Poets and BN Classic series. Would agree have exact same symptom at the runout grooves on my copies on the new press. As you noted the Alto Analog copy is good. Prior to that, this title was available on the Fantasy OJC series for many years. Still have a few OJC copies. Used copies of the original OJC series have climbed substantially in price over the last few years, same with original OJC press of Waltz for Debby. The original OJCs were pressed at one of the Columbia Record plants (Terre Haute, IN or Pitman NJ). If a person really deep cleans the older OJC it helps a ton. This recording is also available in the Acoustic sounds 45 RPM box set which is quite excellent. Bill Evans was also a huge seller in Japan. Both Toshiba-EMI and Victor Music pressed this title as well all of the other Bill Evans Riverside titles. Victor Music issued this several times as an SMJ series, a VIJ series and I believe a VIJJ series as well as the Victor pressed VIJ series Bill Evans Riverside Box set (a really great find if a person can locate it, but not cheap). If I had to rank the pressings I have, would say the 45 RPM box set is first, 2nd is the new OJC cut by Kevin Gray, 3rd is the Victor Music VIJ series, 4th is the Ultra copy, 5th is original OJC series. The Riverside OGs are super hard to find in clean condition. I do not have one so can't offer any comparisons on the sonics of the OG. For pressing quality only, the Victor Music SMJ or VIJ series tops everything else. Totally silent vinyl, no vinyl noise and great resolution. Not really possible but would be something to hear a Kevin Gray Lacquer plated and pressed by Victor Music Japan!
Thanks for the great comment! So much good info! Appreciate your ranking.
@@ThePressingMatters NP. You did a great review on this. Bill Evans is so accessible for those who are not deep into jazz recordings or listen to mostly rock and want to dip their toes into the jazz vinyl pool.
I just bought it and the price in Norway is 60 dollars with all expenses. Thanks for the information.👍
Hi, thanks for watching and commenting! $60 is still a fair price considering the quality of this release. I'm glad you were able to get a copy and are enjoying it.
Hi Scott, many thanks for your review which I was curiously waiting for. I also do own the Alto reissue and, man, I love it a lot. I also ordered the new OJC and I am still waiting for it. Listening to your impressions and experience with that one and since it obviously also has the same cutting or pressing issues as the Waltz for Debby I probably cancel my order. For 50+ US here in Europe I would expect a better quality. A pity but luckily the Alto serves me right. Happy Thanksgiving!
Hi Thomas,
I would probably do the same. The Alto is a fine record and it's pressed pretty much perfectly. I would wait until a new batch comes around and the pressing issue is resolved. The OJC does sound better but as I said it's not dramatic enough to put yourself through that if this kind of pressing issue bothers you. I'm not sure how I will proceed. I think you made the right call.
Great review Scott. I received my copy this week and I haven't had the time to listen to it yet. With Thanksgiving and work, there was no time. I really wanted to get the AP double 45 version of this album at one point and the only way to get it now is to purchase the boxset. For me, it is just too expensive so I was happy to see this version was made available. The between track noise really doesn't bother me, just as long as the music is clean and sounds good. I hope you and your family had a wonderful Thanksgiving. Cheers
Hi Brian,
Luckily, it's not heard between tracks at all, just a whisper at the lead in and a louder white noise on the lead outs. The magnificent music is intact with a great mastering. You're sure to enjoy this one.
Scott awesome review I received my OJC it sounds beautiful I put it slightly over the AP 45 the instruments are more balance and that because Kevin Gray upgraded his system big time. I’ve never heard the Nick Webb version but would love too . I only have the the AP 45 and a OG mono I been told by a few friends that have the Mofi One step and they told me it still is the best . That’s interesting with the lead out segment I did have that on the Waltz for Debby but need to listen closer on this OJC
Hi Andrew,
Thank you so much! You're the first that has shared any comparison with the AP 45. I've never heard it but that's really saying something! I have heard both good and bad about the MOFI. I'm sure it has its strengths, but this copy is not getting opened now that this edition is here, I'd rather sell it and put the cash toward a system upgrade.please check your lead out (and lead in carefully. It's pretty loud and immediate on the lead out. It would be encouraging to know clean copies exist.
@@ThePressingMatters great move Scott the price of that One Step you can get a very nice system upgrade just listening to the run out groove lead out yes my has it too on Sunday at the Village Vanguard it’s crazy because my AP 45 doesn’t that issue and the Waltz AP 45.
Thanks for the video review Scott. Was supposed to get my copy last week but it was delayed?
Sounds like it will be worth the wait though!
Absolutely my friend! I've heard of some delays direct from Craft. You're sure to love it. Please let me know what you heard and if you got the noise in the lead out groove. Apparently it's not on all of them.
Happy Thanksgiving to you! I listened to this release the day before Thanksgiving. Wow wow wow, I was so impressed with it that I pulled my son in the room to hear it too. 😻 He said that it was on the level of an UHQR pressing. There is light noise (nothing disturbing to me) in the dead wax of the record, but I don't hear anything in the grooves with music. Although I've known about this great release from the Bill Evans Trio for a long time, I never bought a vinyl copy of it until now. I was too busy acquiring other music. Within the last year I wanted to add a good sounding copy to my collection. I couldn't find it anywhere at an affordable price. I decided to wait for reissues of both this album and Waltz for Debby. I figured such great albums would be reissued sooner or later. Boy was the wait worth if for both albums. They're just such excellent versions. 😻
Thanks for your comments. This pressing issue is something each person has to decide if they are ok with. As you say it's not affecting the music, and the mastering sounds spectacular so it's something you can overlook or accept.
So glad you are loving this release, it really is wonderful to have a great sounding reisssue generally available. Thanks for sharing your experience.
When I lived in the Silicon Valley many years ago, my then girlfriend and now wife used to go to a 1930's era place called The Hedley Club. They would play jazz there on the weekend. It was a very cozy place we'd check out after having dinner out and to get a night cap at the bar in the club while we snuggled in the comfy, plush seating. The Bill Evans Trio album is so good, it reminds me of the sound I would hear listening to live jazz in that club on cold winter nights. The only difference is that the musicians are much better on the record. When a vinyl record can produce the feeling of a truly live experience, you know that you've struck pure gold. @@ThePressingMatters
That is such a good observation and experience to share. I'm sure there are some people getting this record who have never been to a small jazz venue. They would probably be surprised that the audience and ambiance isn't hushed or quiet generally. This record captures that in a way that doesn't overwhelm the music, just gives enough of the ambiance to transport you there. I did find that this record is a great one for zeroing in speaker positioning. Moving them in and out from the back wall, width and toe in can really help here. Once it's right, the illusion is locked in and it's immersive. Dim the lights, get back in the sweet spot, and you're there, 1961 at the Village Vanguard
Amen, brother it's like a spiritual experience. For me the test for every vinyl record is how close you get to live music or if it recreates the sound of an era. This is the Hedley Club located in the Hotel De Anza: ruclips.net/video/uOWOvwHHNHI/видео.html @@ThePressingMatters
I'd recommend selling that MOFI One-Step and using the cash to buy the Bill Evans box set. That's very much well worth it, and the main reason why I haven't bothered with the OJC reissues.
Great advice, it's definitely going to be sold, along with a good chunk of other stuff. Just trying to find the time and best approach to selling this stuff. I need some cash and more shelf space!
Wait, that Bull Evans box is how wide?! 😊
forgot to add there is one more US pressed version. The Fantasy 2-fers series issued in the 1970s released this title. Mastered by Turner and pressed by one of the Columbia plants. On this 2 record release you get both "Sunday" and "Waltz for Debby" on one 2 disc set. Sonics are a notch below the first OJC release but are still quite listenable. And for those on a tight budget it may be a good option. You get this two record set which contains both titles for around 25-30 USD.
I've not heard that one but I have heard others in the series. They can be quite good indeed! For years I bypassed them. Now I rarely see them. I remember both of these albums came out in a short lived Musical Heritage Society offshoot for Jazz. The jackets were unappealing but they were pressed really well and if I recall sounded nice. I had found them in a thrift shop for a dollar each, but let them go in a sale I once had. The buyer was really happy with them!
@@ThePressingMatters very cool. Most of the Fantasy 2-fers were re-issues of really hard to find OG Prestige and Riverside pressings. Speaking of MHS, a bit of a topic divergence but MHS re-issued a number of jazz titles. On the best sounding titles is a Milt Jackson title. As you noted pretty plain jacket artwork. Masterdisk performed the mastering and cut the lacquers. The vinyl was pressed by EDP (Europa Disk). Sonically these are really good. One of these jazz titles is a Milt Jackson title - don't remember the exact name but something similar to "Ain't But a few of Us Left". It is worth picking up if a person sees it. Great music and excellent sonics to boot. Has a lot of that tape type sound to it.
@mcgjohn22 I figured there might have been some others in that series. I did listen to them before I sold them and thought they did sound great, and seemed very well made. It was before I was really into jazz. The person who bought them actually called me back to thank me. He loved the sound! Now I wish I still had them!
Totally agree about the run out groove.
Otherwise, this new edition is about the best SQ one could ever hope for from a $35 record.
I’m sure the 2x45 in the $900 AP/QRP box sounds better. But I have to pick and choose what I splurge on. This $35 Craft edition satisfies my need for excellent SQ. I love great SQ but I love music even more, and this pressing allows me to fully enjoy this beautiful music.
As usual, I loved this video and really appreciate your take, and your insights about the music and the recording.
Thank you Ron,
My minorcquibble about the run out notwithstanding, this reissue is everything I hoped it would be. The SQ is so good. Nothing sounds pushed or highlighted and it gives a wonderful sense of intention that I hadn't noticed to such a degree on other pressings. By that I mean why the music unfolds the way it does, how the interplay seems with purpose - the overall vision that Bill had for this is all quite clearer. Yet at the same time feels loose and spontaneous.
I don’t have any runout groove noise on this or Watlz for Debby. Both my copies are very quiet which I’m so happy about cause RTI is a little hit or miss for me these days. I will say so far I have all the new OJC’s and they’ve all been flawless pressing wise.
That's awesome! I did hope it would disappear with a cleaning but it seems to be on at least one stamper, or batch of this title. Glad to know there are perfect ones to be had. Thanks so much for letting me know.
Nice overview, Scott. I, too, have the Alto 33 and love it (also have the One-Step - and just like you, never opened the shrink). Felt wise to keep that one intact (as I already had the AP45 version, as well.) I noticed the noise at the end of each side, as well. Will be so curious to see what other titles OJC announces soon for their next batch. Have always been wondering if Chad would team up with Craft to do a full Riverside Series run. All of those Riverside titles AP did back in the day are excellent and so far out of reach price-wise on Discogs now. Hope you and your's have a nice holiday. Cheers.
Thanks! I too think the Alto is a keeper, and I like having a few different takes on things. I thought I'd get some flack for having a sealed one step, but I'm glad you understood the reasons why and glad I'm not the only one! I'm very curious but not $900 curious. Shame about the lead outs on this. My second one was exactly the same so it's on at least one stamper. Did you have a chance to compare to the Alto. If you do I'd love your comments. Take care!
Scott
Still waiting on the arrival of the OJC. Should get here any day now. Will lyk my hot take...@@ThePressingMatters
@@NotedArchived Ok looking forward to that!
yes would agree, but think Chad and AP are overloaded so a more likely outcome is more from concord craft as OJCs.
Agreed. The only thing is the release schedule is so slow. 12 titles a year? It might take forever to get to some of our favorites.
OJC vinyl is incredible. Wish it was in mono. ❤
I've never heard this in mono! I kind of think stereo would be essential for this one in particular to get that in the room feeling, but I could see a more cohesive mono presentation appealing too.
Either way, the recording is essential and I'm glad to have a few copies of it. Thanks for watching!
@@ThePressingMatters I’ve been to the Vanguard enough to know that in person- it doesn’t sound “ stereo”. This seems to me to be to disperse. I doubt they care about my opinion. Have been listening to this since the 70’s and am thankful it exists in any form. ✌️
After I got the Alto I sold my Mob Fid one step due to the unfavorable price-performance in comparison. Hopefully I will hear of pressing improvements of the new OJC then I will definitely give it a chance too.
I'll keep you updated. I may try one from a different source, but the batch my local Amazon has right now is affected.
Many thanks, Scott!
This was probably the best release I grabbed in 2O23. I’m so glad Craft is going back and doing these titles. I’m hoping that this year Portrait in Jazz gets released. Keep up the great work 👍
This was fantastic. What a treat. Thanks so much for your comment!
I have the lead-out noise, too, Scott. Odd. It's worse on Side 1, but both sides. I'm up changing sides as the last notes are played, so didn't hear it initially. And I really had to crank the volume. But it is odd.
It does seem odd that it's happening here and not in other Ratzi jobs like the Tone Poets. One person offered that his doesn't have it at all so perhaps one stamper is affected.
By the way I loved your write up on the Genesis record. It's nice to read sprinted review sometimes where thoughts can be arranged. I might give it a try myself.
I agree about the RTI lead out noise issue. Ive had the same experience with these OJCs and the recent Atlantic 75th series where the QRP presse of Selling England was quiet as can be while RTIs of Blues n Roots was noise the last few seconds before the music even ends. I wonder what is happening there.
RTI must be rushing things because they never used to be so inconsistent. MOFI's One Steps are plagued with pressing issues. I'm really happy with QRP lately.
Interesting to see which pressings you will be comparing.
There will be only the two listed on the thumbnail, the new OJC and the Alto Analogue. I know you might be disappointed the One Step is not included. I'm not certain but I think I may have seen a post from you that you really liked it?
Another nice vid, this new OJC is marvelous, unfortunately the only other version I have is the original OJC. I have yet to read or see a definite comparison with the MoFi.
Thank you so much. I have not seen or read a definite comparison with the MOFI, and although I have it, I explained why that's not going to happen unfortunately. There has been a comment in this section from a viewer who's taste and hearing I trust, that said the MOFI has unnatural emphasis on Scott LaFaro's bass, which takes away from the piano and I imagine the whole balance of the ensemble. It's not the first time I've heard that either. I think I saw a video posted from a channel I'm not familiar with that has both versions in question on the thumbnail. Perhaps the reviewer there can offer some insight but I know nothing about his priorities or system recommend it either way. You probably can find it if you do a search.
Don't waste your money on the MOFI. Would be better off trying to locate a Victor Music pressing or put those funds towards the 45 RPM box set. On your original OJC pressing super clean it or US clean it to remove all the particles from the grooves and it will sound a ton better.
In your write up above I noticed you gave a shout out to Kevin Gray at Cohearant Audio. I am sure you know they just did their first release , Kirsten Edkins-Shapes and Sound. I could not find a review of this by you. If you have not heard it and reviewed it I can say I think it would be worth your time. Excellent recording, master and pressing (one of the best pressings I own, maybe the best).
That record is in my radar and I will be covering it soon. Thanks for the endorsement of it!
Compliments! Nice video with great review. A curiosity. Ever listened to Analogue Production's 45 rpm version from 2002? Cordial greetings
Hi,
Thanks for your comment!
No I have never heard that version. I wish I had it for this comparison.
I'm honestly looking forward to its arrival. It's a shame that we are far apart otherwise I would gladly lend you the LP in question .Thanks for the interesting videos of her. Have a good continuation!@@ThePressingMatters
@tizianogagliardi1998 Thank you, that's very kind of you. I do try to borrow other significant pressings where I can, but none of my associates had the version you're asking about.
I have a sealed OS also, a friend offered me $750 a year a go, nope. Also have the other BE OS sealed plus open copie
I just picked this up yesterday and I don’t hear any of the white noise you mention. Don’t hear it in my copy of Waltz for Debbie either. Guess I got lucky!
You certainly did, and now I know I have to keep trying! I wonder if it's only certain stampers? If you have a chance could you give me the deadwax codes?
@@ThePressingMatters I’m pretty new to vinyl (3years into it now), so I hope I’m giving you the information you need. This is for side 1 of each album:
Village Vanguard:
CR00609-A2
41411.1(3) …
Waltz:
CR00617-A
41147.1 (3) …
@chrismckee4154 Thanks, that's exactly what I need. Let me check the Village Vanguard. I actually have two here:
Same exactly here. Must have just affected some copies, perhaps an issue that developed later into the run. You are lucky!
Thanks for doing that
Hi Scott. I have also the whitenoice on the run out groove. especially side 1. Did you have it returned. on the new one it's gone ?
Hi Eric,
My replacement has it too, but I'm going to keep it. Everything else is perfect maybe I'll try again at another time.
Me 2 . To much hazzle . i have to travel to another city to return it. I keep it. Still find at this amount o money it should be perfect ..... Thanks for the video again !!!
I have an early 2000s OJC and they are nice. Haven’t heard the Alto Analog
Some really like the AAA MoFi One Step - swear by it for the micro detail - like you are on the stage hearing the cues between musicians. I don’t. I think Mofi made Scott Lafaro’s bass sound way too forward and loud. It sounds 10 feet tall and is very distracting. You lose a little naturalness in the piano. My son plays upright and many times in the same room so I have a good idea of how it should sound
I didn’t open my MoFi Portraits in Jazz for some reason. The AP is that good and I had an original
The Analog Productions is wonderful. Perfectly balanced, warmth, detail. You are in the club and the light talking and cocktail glasses clinking come out really naturally. You can hear the waitresses setting down their trays in back. The performances even more so. So much space. The playing, telepathy at it’s best. Paul’s light brushes, the resonance of individual keys - clarity, plucking versus sustained notes, Scott’s harmonics. This AP is lovely and well worth searching out
My recommendation - I know it’s a bit of a cash outlay but worth it
Sell your sealed MoFi One Step for big bucks and buy the AP box while it is available - 22 sides for $900.
Let me know when you sell it, so I can wait and then sell my One Step 😊
That is resourceful thinking! I may just do that. I will let you know!
My MOFI edition is still sealed. I'd love to sell i.
I'm probably going to sell off mine too. I've got to downsize and gain some shelf space.
Is there somewhere i can get this shipped to Australia for less than $100aud?
I'm not the biggest jazz fan so this isn't at the top of my list so $100+ is a little steep for an album im not in love with.
Amazon should have this album. Is there a Austrailian Amazon site? I would imagine that would be your best bet and cheapest price.
But if you've heard the recording and are not in love with it, I would not pay $100 for it. Not that I don't think it's great, but it's a $40 record.
Finally got my hands on this record and have really enjoyed it overall. Sound quality is great and fortunately didn’t have the run-out noise issue.
One thing I’m wondering about though- the percussion on Alice in Wonderland. On my system, the percussion is VERY hot on this track to the point where it’s “sizzling” noise is at some points so over-bearing and sounds distorted. Is this normal?
I’m new to this album so I have no comparison, but to my taste at least the sound was unpleasant regarding the percussion. I’m unsure if this is a pressing issue, or simply this was recorded/cut really hot.
Let me doublecheck my two copies, the Alto and the OJC.
I'm playing the Alto now. I guess you mean the cymbal shimmer riding above the music. On the Alto it sounds exactly like what it is, with a nice light texture and finesse in the way it's resolved. Sounds pretty natural to me.
Now Kevin's cut is different, a little more vibrant, I guess you could say hotter, and that sound is more apparent, but not objectionably so. It does sound like what it is. On my system, it doesn't become an indistinct white noise, and retains its texture and character. It's definitely more audible. I slightly prefer the Alto in this regard. It sits in the sound picture a bit better I think, but I could see some preferring the Craft OJC. Has a bit more life to it. I didn't hear it as overbearing or very hot.
Perhaps it's a bit demanding cut and some minor adjustments to VTA or tracking weight might reign it in a bit
Do have a listen on streaming to get some perspective .
Bottom line is the OJC is cut a bit louder than my Alto, but has an arresting presence as well. It might have been the price to pay or the tape has changed a bit?
Hope this helps.
@@ThePressingMatters cheers for the detailed response Scott, I’ll look into experimenting with my turntable set up. Keep up the great content 👍
@@Levi-ek4el I just heard the dreaded run out groove on my copy. It's really terrible. Might need to get a current press and return this one. It's a shame. It spoils a nice record.
One tip I recall from the 'hot cut' issue with Picture of Heath Tome Poet. That was a great test record for precise setup. Joe Harley and others suggested looking at antiskate and tracking force, and it did solve the problem for a lot of people on that record.
@@ThePressingMatters a real-shame with the run-out issue, I’ve heard it on quite a few MOFI albums so must be a fairly significant problem at RTI. It really pulls you out of the experience unfortunately, especially when the music is so intimate and the rest of the playing surface is dead quiet.
Cheers for the advice on tracking force and anti-skate, I’ll play around with it.
I also own the Nick Webb mastering done at Abbey Road Studios bought probably 25 years ago. The sound on that reissue is very good but not stellar. You are right: there is a lacking of harmonics around instruments and even a lacking of ambient harmonics. The sonics are a bit (if even only a bit) sterile. A digitized mastering? Who knows for sure? I'll try the new reissue by Craft. Thanks
Hi Paolo,
Thank you for that information! I had no idea it was done at Abbey Road. You're going to appreciate the improvements Kevin has brought to this record. Let me know when you've heard it!
recent RTI frequent have off center pressing issue, my copy have this issue.......
That is not acceptable on any record but very noticible in a piano record. I would try again. My copy is centered.
Well, that would certainly kill a record that's got piano in it. I'm sorry yours is off center. Can you exchange it? Mine is not affected this way.
It's amazing how RTI is slipping in QC. The used to be so reliable foe well pressed records.
I listened to that album in the Craft Recordings edition and I can say that I'm not really impressed. It's still a live album and it was recorded the way it was recorded. I think many $25 OJC releases sound better than this. It is not at all clear to me that someone buys that album on 2LP 45RPM, and especially that they pay 1000 dollars for it? I don't want to be annoying, but maybe we should tell people the truth? Thanks for the effort and for another good video.👍
Thanks for your comment.
Is the Craft your first exposure to the album? Just wondering if you found some other edition preferable? I only mention the One Step because it is absurd for me to open such a valuable album at this point. I would never pay 1,000 for any album, so I get what you're saying. There's no consensus out there that the One Step is objectively better anyway. There are certainly better recorded albums in the OJC catalog, no disagreement there. But for one who does want this unique album, a document of that day in a live setting, this does sound very good and equal to the other 33 I have, just slightly different in flavor. It's a good thing to have an affordable version of it in print that holds up to the best of prior editions, and I think that is why most are happy with it. Whether one thinks the recording is as good as something else is not what I was getting to here. Perhaps an older OJC may be good enough for this record, but unfortunately I did not have that one this time.
@@ThePressingMatters It's not my first exposure to the album, I already have the Riverside reissue from 1967 and it sounds completely different. It's darker and doesn't have as much ambience as this Kevin Gray mastering release. I actually think that in my opinion Kevin Gray may have made the mistake of adding ambience and sacrificing the sound of Bill Evans' piano. Bill`s piano sounds thin and somewhat cold. I'm not sure I like the way it sounds. In any case, thanks for the effort and the answer.👍🙂
The shipping from Craft is a joke still waiting for this to ship .
I would never deal with them. Why? You can order from Amazon and have it on release day with easy return privileges. Sorry you are still waiting but I think you'll find it worth the wait!
I usually use Amazon for the same reasons you mentioned in your reply.
I am just bringing awareness to the lousy shipping of Craft . Hopefully some one from Craft is reading these comments
@@Anthony-fz7uf I only used them when I had to - the first One Steps were only through them. It wasn't a smooth ordering or shippping process.
Yes , the same here with me an Craft . It will get here one day lol.
I guess we all a bit spoiled by Amazon
Ordered mine from Elusive Disc. Arrived promptly.
Like others, I usually try to avoid ordering directly from Craft due to slow shipping times.
Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!