Eddie Gómez

Known for his exceptional adaptability and swift responsiveness on the instrument, Eddie Gomez stands out as an accompanist of choice, even if his solo outings sometimes wander inconsistently within jazz idioms. Raised in New York, he performed with the Newport Festival Youth Band from 1959 through 1961. After completing studies at Juilliard, he appeared alongside Rufus Jones' sextet, Marian McPartland in 1964, Paul Bley from 1964 to 1965, Giuseppe Logan, Gerry Mulligan, Gary McFarland, and additional artists. Recognition arrived through his extended membership in the Bill Evans Trio between 1966 and 1977. In later years he has contributed to an array of projects, among them a temporary replacement for Charles Mingus in 1978, membership in Steps Ahead from 1979 to 1984, work with Benny Wallace, Joanne Brackeen, Jack DeJohnette, Chick Corea, and studio sessions for commercial recordings. As a leader, Eddie Gomez has released albums on Columbia, ProJazz, and Stretch.