* En anglais uniquement
During his tragically short life,
Scott LaFaro quickly developed into one of the most advanced bassists around, competing with
Charlie Haden and
Charles Mingus. He emphasized high notes, could play with great speed, and his interplay with
Bill Evans in their trio was mutually stimulating and influential.
LaFaro originally played clarinet and tenor before settling on bass while in college. He was with
Buddy Morrow's band (1955-1956), toured with
Chet Baker (1956-1957), and worked during the next few years with
Ira Sullivan,
Barney Kessel,
Cal Tjader, and
Benny Goodman, among others.
LaFaro joined
the Bill Evans Trio in 1959 and, although he would record with
Ornette Coleman (including
Free Jazz) and gig with
Stan Getz, the bassist is best-remembered for his association with
Evans, particularly their Village Vanguard recordings of 1961. The 25-year-old
Scott LaFaro's death in a car accident shortly after was a major shock to the jazz world. ~ Scott Yanow