Is Aziza a good place to start with Dave Holland?

Yes, Aziza is recommended as a starting point for new Dave Holland listeners. A vibrant fusion of modern jazz intricacies and rhythmic explorations, characterized by rich melodies and intricate improvisation. By the time 'Aziza' was released in 2016, Dave Holland had established himself as a significant figure in jazz, having already released numerous acclaimed albums. This record marked his first release with a quintet that included younger musicians, showcasing a blend of seasoned artistry and fresh perspectives, further solidifying his role as a mentor in the jazz community.

Aziza works well if you're into gradual build to energetic climax, vibrant rhythmic explorations and improvisational moments of discovery.

How many songs are on Aziza?

Aziza has 8 tracks, running approximately 68 minutes.

Released 10 years ago this October

Aziza

Dave Holland · 2016

68 min · 8 tracks · jazz

A vibrant fusion of modern jazz intricacies and rhythmic explorations, characterized by rich melodies and intricate improvisation.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Aziza Dance Start here — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its complex rhythms and engaging interplay among musicians, encapsulating the vibrant spirit of the ensemble.
→
Blue Sufi — A lengthy piece that showcases Holland's ability to weave emotional depth into extended improvisations, offering a meditative yet dynamic listening experience.
→
Finding the Light — This track features an uplifting melody that highlights the group's cohesion and creative synergy, making it a standout moment on the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

67 /100

Alpine

Higher than 91% of albums we've rated

The album blends intricate compositions with improvisational freedom, showcasing Holland's innovative approach to jazz.

What we noticed

Each track showcases extended improvisation sections, allowing the musicians to explore themes rather than adhering strictly to written melodies.
The final track, 'Sleepless Night', contrasts with the preceding pieces by employing a more subdued tempo and introspective mood.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 7/10
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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

gradual build to energetic climax
vibrant rhythmic explorations
improvisational moments of discovery
late-night reflective listening

Maybe skip if you

prefer instant gratification
seek straightforward song structures

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Critical Peak — Showcases Holland's artistry and received critical acclaim, marking an important moment in his career.
Themes: modern jazz exploration· mentorship in music· rhythmic complexity
Career context: By the time 'Aziza' was released in 2016, Dave Holland had established himself as a significant figure in jazz, having already released numerous acclaimed albums. This record marked his first release with a quintet that included younger musicians, showcasing a blend of seasoned artistry and fresh perspectives, further solidifying his role as a mentor in the jazz community.
Stylistic neighbors: Chick Corea· Herbie Hancock· John Patitucci