What makes Action-Refraction by Ben Allison notable?

Action-Refraction received positive reviews from critics, highlighting its intricate arrangements and cohesive sound. The album showcases Allison's ability to blend traditional jazz elements with modern influences, contributing to the evolution of jazz in the early 2010s. Released in 2011, Action-Refraction is Ben Allison's fifth studio album, following the critically acclaimed albums like Think Free (2006) and The Stars Align (2008). At this point in his career, Allison was solidifying his reputation as a prominent figure in contemporary jazz, known for his innovative approach to composition and ensemble work.

Who is Action-Refraction for?

Action-Refraction works well if you're into intricate compositions with vibrant energy, expressive improvisation that surprises and thoughtful exploration of rhythmic patterns.

How many songs are on Action-Refraction?

Action-Refraction has 7 tracks, running approximately 42 minutes.

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Action-Refraction

Ben Allison · 2011

42 min · 7 tracks · jazz

A vibrant blend of intricate jazz compositions and expressive improvisation, weaving together complex rhythms and melodic explorations.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Some Day We'll All Be Free — This track is a powerful reinterpretation of the classic song, emphasizing a hopeful message through sophisticated harmonies and emotive solos.
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Philadelphia — With its rich melodic lines and rhythmic complexity, this track illustrates Allison's skill in crafting atmospheric soundscapes that invite deep listening.
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We've Only Just Begun — This piece stands out for its compelling structure, featuring a seamless interplay between the instruments that highlights the ensemble's chemistry.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album balances intricate compositions with improvisation, creating a cohesive yet exploratory jazz experience.

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: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. 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

intricate compositions with vibrant energy
expressive improvisation that surprises
thoughtful exploration of rhythmic patterns
cathartic moments of melodic release

Maybe skip if you

prefer straightforward song structures
want fast-paced, immediate gratification

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 2011, Action-Refraction is Ben Allison's fifth studio album, following the critically acclaimed albums like Think Free (2006) and The Stars Align (2008). At this point in his career, Allison was solidifying his reputation as a prominent figure in contemporary jazz, known for his innovative approach to composition and ensemble work.
Stylistic neighbors: Brian Blade· Mark Turner· Chris Potter

Tracklist

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

1 Jackie-Ing 4:53
2 Missed 5:16
3 Some Day We'll All Be Free 7:11
4 Philadelphia 5:38
5 St Ita's Vision 7:00
6 We've Only Just Begun 7:51
7 Broken 5:06

What to play next

Listen next

Union Square

2012

Go back to

Think Free

2009

Full Ben Allison discography Artists like Ben Allison

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Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata