Released 20 years ago
BalladWare
David S. Ware · 2006
69 min · 7 tracks · jazz
A meditative fusion of avant-garde jazz with lyrical improvisation, evoking deep emotional resonance through intricate melodies.
Top tracks — play these first
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Yesterdays — This track opens the album with a reflective mood, blending Ware's intricate saxophone lines with a rich harmonic backdrop that sets the tone for the entire record.
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Dao — A pivotal moment on the album, 'Dao' showcases intricate interplay between musicians, highlighting Ware's ability to create expansive soundscapes through improvisation.
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Angel Eyes — 'Angel Eyes' stands out due to its extended length and hauntingly beautiful melody, allowing for profound exploration of musical themes and emotional expression.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalThe album showcases intricate melodies and strong improvisation, solidifying its place in avant-garde jazz.
What we noticed
- The album features a consistent use of long, flowing melodies that often overlap and intertwine, creating a rich tapestry of sound.
- Each track typically begins with a clear melodic statement before devolving into more abstract improvisation, allowing for emotional exploration.
- The instrumentation primarily revolves around the saxophone, supported by piano and bass, which creates a warm yet complex sonic environment.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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
- meditative exploration of sound
- gradual build to emotional climax
- reflective moments for deep thought
- immersive listening for quiet spaces
- patient unfolding of musical themes
Maybe skip if you
- seeking quick, punchy tracks
- prefer upbeat, energetic sessions
Where this album fits
- Career context
- By 2006, David S. Ware had established himself as a significant voice in avant-garde jazz, with 'BalladWare' serving as his first album after a brief hiatus. Known for his innovative saxophone work and complex compositions, this release continued to showcase his unique approach to jazz, following the critically acclaimed 'Freedom Suite' from 2000.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Matthew Shipp· Sun Ra· Ornette Coleman
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Yesterdays 9:18
- 2 Dao 10:34
- 3 Autumn Leaves 7:50
- 4 Godspelized 8:29
- 5 Sentient Compassion 8:21
- 6 Tenderly 9:16
- 7 Angel Eyes 15:29
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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