A Drop of Water cover

Released 40 years ago

A Drop of Water

Keiko Matsui · 1986

44 min · 9 tracks · smooth jazz

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental
51 /100
Foothills
Higher than 34% of albums we've rated

The album showcases Matsui's unique blend of jazz and world influences, establishing her style while remaining accessible.

What we noticed

  • The album features a consistent use of piano as the lead instrument, with layered synths and soft percussion creating a lush backdrop.
  • Each track maintains a gentle tempo, with no sudden shifts in dynamics or rhythm, contributing to a soothing atmosphere.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
8/10

running order, pacing, length

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 Ancient Wind 6:22
  • 2 Light Above the Trees 4:48
  • 3 Harbour Wind 5:40
  • 4 Mediterranean Sea 4:20
  • 5 A Drop of Water 5:24
  • 6 From My Window 5:10
  • 7 Only Way Home 3:07
  • 8 Fairy 4:34
  • 9 Paper Spirit 4:49

Reference: MusicBrainz