What makes Amsterdam After Dark by George Coleman notable?

This album is significant for its contribution to the hard bop and post-bop genres during the late 1970s, showcasing Coleman's innovative approach to jazz. It has garnered positive critical reception and remains influential among contemporary jazz musicians, often noted for its sophisticated compositions and skilled improvisation. By 1979, George Coleman was an established figure in the jazz scene, having previously worked with legends like Miles Davis. 'Amsterdam After Dark' marked his return to the forefront as a bandleader following his contributions to the Davis ensemble, presenting a matured artistry that highlighted his unique voice on the saxophone.

How many songs are on Amsterdam After Dark?

Amsterdam After Dark has 6 tracks, running approximately 44 minutes.

Amsterdam After Dark

George Coleman · 1979

44 min · 6 tracks · jazz

A vibrant jazz odyssey blending intricate melodies with rhythmic grooves, showcasing Coleman’s mastery on the saxophone.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Amsterdam After Dark — The title track serves as an expansive showcase of Coleman's improvisational prowess, intertwining complex harmonies with a rich, atmospheric sound that encapsulates the album's essence.
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Autumn in New York — This rendition transforms a familiar standard into a lush exploration of emotion and technique, allowing Coleman to display his expressive range and deep connection to the material.
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Apache Dance — With its dynamic rhythm and intricate solos, this track highlights the synergy between Coleman and his bandmates, creating a captivating narrative through sound.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

60 /100

Treeline

Higher than 66% of albums we've rated

Coleman's intricate melodies and rhythmic grooves create a compelling jazz experience, though it may not resonate widely outside its genre.

What we noticed

The album opens with a title track that features a complex interplay between the saxophone and rhythm section, establishing a vibrant atmosphere.
Each track varies in tempo and mood, with several pieces incorporating syncopated rhythms that invite listener engagement.
The final track, 'Blondies Waltz', employs a slower tempo and a more reflective tone, providing a contrast to the preceding energetic compositions.

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

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.

Tracklist

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

1 Amsterdam After Dark 8:29
2 New Arrival 7:21
3 Lo-Joe 5:00
4 Autumn in New York 10:16
5 Apache Dance 7:49
6 Blondies Waltz 5:50

What to play next

Listen next

My Horns of Plenty

1991

Go back to

Meditation

1977

Full George Coleman discography Artists like George Coleman

hard bop post-bop

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata