At the Village Vanguard cover

At the Village Vanguard

Paul Motian

69 min · 8 tracks · free jazz

A mesmerizing exploration of free jazz, blending intricate rhythms with haunting melodies in an intimate setting.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • gradual escalation towards conclusion
  • intimate late-night listening experience
  • immersive exploration of sound
  • haunting melodies with intricate rhythms

Maybe skip if you want

  • seekers of instant gratification
  • prefer standalone, catchy tracks

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 2000, 'At the Village Vanguard' marked Paul Motian's return to the iconic New York jazz venue after previous successes. This album showcases his evolution as a bandleader and composer, following his distinguished career as a drummer and collaborator with legends like Bill Evans and Keith Jarrett. The recording exemplifies Motian's unique approach to improvisation and group dynamics.
Stylistic neighbors
Bill Evans· Charles Lloyd· Keith Jarrett

Tracklist

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

  • 1 You Took the Words Right Out of My Heart 7:58
  • 2 Abacus 9:38
  • 3 Folk Song for Rosie 10:19
  • 4 The Owl of Cranston 8:30
  • 5 Miles to Wrentham 4:46
  • 6 Yahllah 14:16
  • 7 The Sunflower 8:33
  • 8 Circle Dance 5:04

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata