With bassist Scott LaFaro and drummer Paul Motian, Bill Evans developed a piano trio that achieved unprecedented interplay. After LaFaro’s untimely death in mid-1961, Evans suffered from depression before recruiting Chuck Israels (ex–Eric Dolphy, George Russell) in early 1962. Moon Beams, recorded that May and June, was the trio’s debut and features all ballads. The modal Evans original “Re: Person I Knew” finds his playing more assertive, with Israels providing a steady yet nimble presence. “Polka Dots and Moonbeams” is taken at a deliberate, explorative tempo. The standards “I Fall in Love Too Easily” and “It Might as Well Be Spring” are performed with care. Motian’s brushwork is sublime on the former, and Evans and Israels demonstrate a simpatico connection on the latter.