Is 1 + 1 a good place to start with Herbie Hancock?

Yes, 1 + 1 is recommended as a starting point for new Herbie Hancock listeners. A reflective exploration of jazz textures, blending delicate melodies with rhythmic complexity and electronic elements. By the time '1 + 1' was released in 1997, Herbie Hancock was already a prominent figure in jazz, known for his innovative approach to fusion and electronic music. This album came after his critically acclaimed work in the 1980s and marked a return to more traditional jazz forms, collaborating with fellow jazz luminary Wayne Shorter.

1 + 1 works well if you're into reflective exploration of soundscapes, gradual build towards resolution and delicate melodies for quiet moments.

How many songs are on 1 + 1?

1 + 1 has 10 tracks, running approximately 62 minutes.

1 + 1

Herbie Hancock · 1997

62 min · 10 tracks · classical · funk · jazz fusion

A reflective exploration of jazz textures, blending delicate melodies with rhythmic complexity and electronic elements.

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Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

reflective exploration of soundscapes
gradual build towards resolution
delicate melodies for quiet moments
intricate rhythms for attentive listening
late-night introspection with nuance

Maybe skip if you want

seekers of instant gratification
prefer upbeat, fast-paced tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Experimental — Fuses jazz with contemporary influences, showcasing a departure from Hancock's established sound.
Themes: political struggle· jazz textures· world music fusion
Career context: By the time '1 + 1' was released in 1997, Herbie Hancock was already a prominent figure in jazz, known for his innovative approach to fusion and electronic music. This album came after his critically acclaimed work in the 1980s and marked a return to more traditional jazz forms, collaborating with fellow jazz luminary Wayne Shorter.
Stylistic neighbors: Chick Corea· Weather Report· Miles Davis
If this clicks, go next to: Gershwin's World — Continues the blend of jazz with innovative textures and rich melodies.
Sounds like this from elsewhere: Return to Forever by Chick Corea — Explores intricate jazz fusion with electronic textures and a global musical perspective.

Secret Story by Pat Metheny — Combines lush melodies with rhythmic complexity and electronic elements, reflecting deep emotional landscapes.

Largo by Brad Mehldau — Merges jazz improvisation with rich electronic soundscapes, creating reflective and atmospheric compositions.

New to Herbie Hancock? Find your way in →

Tracklist

New here? Start with "Meridianne - A Wood Sylph".

1 Meridianne - A Wood Sylph Start here 6:13
2 Aung San Suu Kyi 5:49
3 Sonrisa 6:29
4 Memory of Enchantment 6:24
5 Visitor From Nowhere 7:47
6 Joanna's Theme 5:25
7 Diana 5:35
8 Visitor From Somewhere 9:07
9 Manhattan Lorelei 7:27
10 Hale-Bopp, Hip-Hop 1:51

What to play next

This album is considered a Experimental in Herbie Hancock's catalog. Fuses jazz with contemporary influences, showcasing a departure from Hancock's established sound.

Listen next

Gershwin's World

1998

Continues the blend of jazz with innovative textures and rich melodies.

Go back to

The New Standard

1996

Sets the stage with a modern take on jazz standards, leading into experimental sounds.

Full Herbie Hancock discography Where to start with Herbie Hancock Artists like Herbie Hancock

funk jazz fusion

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