...a poised artist with an impressive template of ideas at his command. – New York Times 

Orrin Evans has been recognized as one of the most inventive pianists of his generation. He creates beautifully layered compositions that resound in the listener’s mind. Just named Top Composer of 2012 by the music publishing organization SESAC, he recently released "It Was Beauty" on Criss Cross Records, marking his 20th recording as a leader and his seventh release for the label, which he began recording for at age 21. 

The release is a watershed artistic statement for Evans. In his 20-year plus career, he’s been critically acclaimed for his imposing chops, his propulsive take on rhythm and harmony alike. Overlooked has been the beauty he creates through his art form. The idea is to show a different side, not a record of ballads, but the intensity of sensitivity. For the project, Evans convened four bassists – Eric Revis, Ben Wolfe, Luques Curtis, and Alex Claffy – and drummer Donald Edwards, all bandstand partners in recent years.  

Evans is that rare musical force – a composer, pianist, bandleader, teacher, producer and arranger – who leads his own bands including The Captain Black Big Band; co-leads and produces bands including Tarbaby; performs with The Cookers, Greg Osby and Sean Jones; and produces projects for other artists including JD Walter; and nurtures young talent including that of his son who guests on the new Tarbaby CD. Evans is always expanding his musical family and artistic conversations beautifully.