What makes Art & Soul by Renee Rosnes notable?

Art & Soul received critical acclaim for its sophisticated arrangements and Rosnes’ virtuosic piano skills, contributing to her rise in the jazz scene. The album features covers alongside original compositions that reflect her unique style, influencing a new generation of jazz musicians. Released in 1999, Art & Soul marked Renee Rosnes' fourth studio album, solidifying her reputation as a prominent voice in contemporary jazz. At this point in her career, she was transitioning into a significant role as a bandleader and composer, following her previous album, Deep Silence.

Who is Art & Soul for?

Art & Soul works well if you're into intricate melodies that invite reflection, rich emotional depth in piano and warm ambiance for afternoon listening.

How many songs are on Art & Soul?

Art & Soul has 10 tracks, running approximately 58 minutes.

Art & Soul

Renee Rosnes · 1999

58 min · 10 tracks · jazz

A rich tapestry of jazz textures woven with emotional depth and intricate melodies, showcasing the artistry of piano and improvisation.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Blues Connotation — This opening track sets the tone with its dynamic interplay between the piano and rhythm section, showcasing Rosnes' ability to blend traditional blues with modern jazz elements.
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With A Little Help From My Friends — Rosnes reinterprets this classic with a jazzy twist, transforming it into an engaging dialogue among instruments that highlights her innovative approach to familiar material.
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Ancient Footprints — This composition stands out for its haunting melodies and intricate harmonies, reflecting Rosnes' skill in creating evocative musical narratives that resonate deeply.

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 features strong compositions and skilled performances, with varied pacing and textures that enhance its appeal.

What we noticed

The final three tracks slow down significantly, allowing for introspective moments that contrast with the earlier energy.

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

intricate melodies that invite reflection
rich emotional depth in piano
warm ambiance for afternoon listening
improvisational moments that surprise

Maybe skip if you

want fast-paced, energetic tracks
prefer straightforward structures

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1999, Art & Soul marked Renee Rosnes' fourth studio album, solidifying her reputation as a prominent voice in contemporary jazz. At this point in her career, she was transitioning into a significant role as a bandleader and composer, following her previous album, Deep Silence.
Stylistic neighbors: Bill Evans· Brad Mehldau· Chick Corea

Tracklist

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

1 Blues Connotation 6:25
2 With A Little Help From My Friends 6:18
3 Goodbye 5:36
4 Ancient Footprints 8:24
5 Fleurette Africaine 6:23
6 Romp 5:40
7 Lazy Afternoon 5:12
8 Little Spirit 5:17
9 Sanfona 3:48
10 Children's Song No.3 5:20

What to play next

Listen next

Life on Earth (Renee Rosnes album)

2001

Go back to

As We Are Now

1997

Full Renee Rosnes discography Artists like Renee Rosnes

jazz

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata