20 Standards (Quartet) 2003 cover

20 Standards (Quartet) 2003

Anthony Braxton · 2005

298 min · 20 tracks · jazz · opera

A vibrant exploration of jazz standards infused with Braxton's avant-garde sensibilities and intricate improvisations.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • extended improvisational deep dives
  • wave-like pacing with surprises
  • intimate late-night listening sessions
  • thoughtful background for conversations
  • exploration of familiar melodies

Maybe skip if you want

  • seeking quick, catchy tunes
  • prefer short, standalone tracks

Where this album fits

Career context
By the time '20 Standards (Quartet)' was released in 2005, Anthony Braxton was established as a leading figure in avant-garde jazz, known for his innovative compositions and unique approach to improvisation. This album followed his prolific output in the early 2000s, which included various collaborations and solo projects, further showcasing his ability to reinterpret classic jazz material through a contemporary lens.
Stylistic neighbors
Ornette Coleman· Sun Ra· Henry Threadgill

Tracklist

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

Disc 1

  • 1 All The Things You Are 20:11
  • 2 Lines For Lyons 13:57
  • 3 April in Paris 12:30
  • 4 Green Dolphin Street 16:12
  • 5 Blues For Alice 13:32

Disc 2

  • 1 Alone Together 18:30
  • 2 Waltz For Debbie 12:32
  • 3 For Heaven's Sake 13:44
  • 4 Freedom Jazz Dance 14:54
  • 5 The Song Is You 19:12

Disc 3

  • 1 The Duke 12:28
  • 2 I Love You 13:54
  • 3 Lonnie's Lament 8:09
  • 4 Blue Rondo ala Turk 14:47
  • 5 Invitation 17:09

Disc 4

  • 1 Tune Up 19:20
  • 2 Remember 18:08
  • 3 Moonlight in Vermont 15:11
  • 4 Take Five 10:29
  • 5 Serenity 13:27

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata