A Cloud of Red Dust
Stefon Harris · 1998
48 min · 11 tracks · jazz
A vibrant fusion of traditional jazz and contemporary influences, blending intricate melodies with rhythmic exploration.
Top tracks — play these first
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Sophistry — This opening track features complex harmonies and showcases Harris's virtuosic vibraphone playing alongside dynamic ensemble interaction, setting the tone for the album.
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In the Garden of Thought — With its contemplative mood and layered textures, this track highlights Harris's ability to blend improvisation with structured composition seamlessly.
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A Cloud of Red Dust — The title track embodies the album's essence, incorporating rich melodic lines and rhythmical complexity that reflect both personal and cultural narratives.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalA Cloud of Red Dust showcases strong compositions and vibrant craftsmanship, establishing Harris's unique voice in jazz.
What we noticed
- The album features a consistent use of the vibraphone as the lead instrument, with intricate melodies that often intertwine with rhythmic percussion.
- Several tracks incorporate extended improvisation sections, allowing for dynamic shifts in tempo and mood throughout the record.
- The first half of the album maintains a lively pace, while the latter half introduces more contemplative pieces, creating a contrast in energy.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- thoughtful reflections on nature
- vibrant rhythms for exploration
- meditative moments of calm
- introspective soundscapes for focus
Maybe skip if you
- prefer fast-paced music
- want straightforward song structures
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in 1998, A Cloud of Red Dust marked Stefon Harris's debut album, establishing him as a significant voice in the jazz scene. At this point, he was a rising star, having already gained attention for his innovative approach to the vibraphone and compositions that melded various influences.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Robert Glasper· Esperanza Spalding· Ambrose Akinmusire
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Sophistry 5:06
- 2 And This Too Shall Pass 8:31
- 3 Nature Music 0:56
- 4 In the Garden of Thought 6:01
- 5 Drum Storm 0:54
- 6 The Prophet 7:07
- 7 Sacred Forest 1:27
- 8 A Cloud of Red Dust 5:51
- 9 One String Blues 1:35
- 10 Jamo 4:52
- 11 For You Mom and Dad 6:15
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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