Paul Motian

Biography

A drummer of profound subtlety and originality, Paul Motian was a key architect of the conversational, interactive approach of the *Bill Evans* Trio. He moved beyond the drummer's traditional time-keeping role to become a master of texture, color, and melodic commentary. His playing was known for its spaciousness and its focus on a fluid, continuous pulse rather than a rigid beat. After landmark stints with *Evans* and *Keith Jarrett*, he emerged as a significant composer and leader in his own right, recording influential albums like 'Conception Vessel' for #ECM# and leading his celebrated long-running trio with guitarist *Bill Frisell* and saxophonist *Joe Lovano*.