What makes Alternating Currents by Spyro Gyra notable?

'Alternating Currents' solidified Spyro Gyra's presence in the smooth jazz genre and gained significant radio play, contributing to their commercial success throughout the mid-1980s. The album reflects a period of increasing popularity for jazz fusion, influencing a wave of artists seeking to blend pop sensibilities with improvisational skill. By the time 'Alternating Currents' was released in 1985, Spyro Gyra had already established themselves as a leader in the jazz fusion scene, following their breakthrough album 'Morning Dance' in 1979. This fifth studio album continued to showcase their signature sound while experimenting with more complex arrangements and showcasing individual musicianship.

Who is Alternating Currents for?

Alternating Currents works well if you're into steady, consistent energy levels, immersive listening sessions and smooth background ambiance.

How many songs are on Alternating Currents?

Alternating Currents has 9 tracks, running approximately 44 minutes.

Alternating Currents

Spyro Gyra · 1985

44 min · 9 tracks · jazz

A vibrant blend of smooth jazz and intricate melodies that effortlessly shifts between playful rhythms and contemplative harmonies.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Shakedown — Opening with a catchy hook, this track exemplifies the band’s ability to fuse rhythmic energy with melodic sophistication, setting the tone for the album.
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Taking The Plunge (For Jennifer) — This piece showcases the band's adeptness at creating lyrical improvisation, featuring intricate solos that highlight individual musicianship while maintaining cohesive group dynamics.
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Mardi Gras — Drawing on festive themes, this track incorporates vibrant horns and infectious grooves that encapsulate the essence of celebration, demonstrating the band’s versatility.

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 blends intricate melodies with playful rhythms, showcasing solid craftsmanship and a cohesive flow.

What we noticed

The album features a consistent use of syncopated rhythms, particularly in tracks like 'Shakedown' and 'Mardi Gras', creating a lively atmosphere.
Each track typically showcases multiple instrumental solos, allowing different band members to take turns leading the melody.
The transitions between tracks often feature smooth fades or key changes that maintain the album's flow without abrupt shifts.

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 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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady, consistent energy levels
immersive listening sessions
smooth background ambiance
dynamic melodic explorations

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Fan Favorite — The album is well-loved by fans and reflects their signature sound in smooth jazz.
Career context: By the time 'Alternating Currents' was released in 1985, Spyro Gyra had already established themselves as a leader in the jazz fusion scene, following their breakthrough album 'Morning Dance' in 1979. This fifth studio album continued to showcase their signature sound while experimenting with more complex arrangements and showcasing individual musicianship.
Stylistic neighbors: Chick Corea· Pat Metheny· Weather Report