What makes 2-3-4 by Shelly Manne notable?

This album is significant for its inventive compositions and arrangements within the hard bop genre, contributing to the evolution of jazz during the early 1960s. The track 'Take the 'A' Train' stands out as a notable reinterpretation of a classic Duke Ellington piece, reflecting Manne's ability to refresh standard repertoire while also achieving critical acclaim in various jazz circles. In 1962, Shelly Manne was already an established figure in the jazz scene, having gained prominence as a drummer and bandleader. '2-3-4' marked his continued exploration of innovative arrangements and collaboration with other prominent jazz artists, following his successful album 'Shelly Manne and His Men.' This release further solidified his reputation for blending traditional jazz forms with contemporary elements.

How many songs are on 2-3-4?

2-3-4 has 7 tracks, running approximately 41 minutes.

2-3-4

Shelly Manne · 1962

41 min · 7 tracks · jazz

A vibrant interplay of intricate rhythms and melodic improvisation, showcasing a dynamic ensemble of skilled jazz musicianship.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Take the "A" Train — This track revitalizes a jazz standard through Manne's creative drumming and the ensemble's tight interaction, making it a highlight of the album's inventive spirit.
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Me and Some Drums — A showcase for Manne's percussion skills, this piece features an engaging conversation between drums and other instruments, emphasizing rhythm as a key element of jazz expression.
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Lean on Me — Offering a blend of complex harmonies and rhythmic sophistication, this track exemplifies the collaborative nature of Manne's ensemble while highlighting each musician’s contributions.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

Instrumental

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The album showcases skilled improvisation and inventive arrangements, marking its place in early '60s jazz.

What we noticed

Tracks like 'Take the 'A' Train' are reinterpreted with unique arrangements that highlight the ensemble's dynamic interplay.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Take the "A" Train 7:34
2 Slowly 5:35
3 Cherokee 3:29
4 Avalon 6:34
5 Me and Some Drums 6:02
6 The Sicks of Us 6:01
7 Lean on Me 6:25

What to play next

Listen next

Sounds Unheard Of!

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Go back to

Live! Shelly Manne & His Men at the Manne-Hole

1961

Full Shelly Manne discography Artists like Shelly Manne

jazz

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata