Beauty Is Enough cover

Beauty Is Enough

Ambrose Akinmusire · 2023

48 min · 16 tracks · jazz

A bold exploration of jazz that intertwines intricate melodies with evocative narratives and innovative structures.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    To: Taymoor — This opening track sets the tone for the album, showcasing Akinmusire's signature trumpet style intertwined with rich harmonic textures that invite listeners into his world.
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    Off the Ledge — With its dynamic shifts and complex rhythms, this track exemplifies Akinmusire's ability to balance technical prowess with emotive storytelling, making it a standout moment on the album.
  • →
    Self -Portrait — This introspective piece captures Akinmusire's reflective side, blending subtle instrumentation with poignant themes of identity and self-discovery that resonate throughout the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental
76 /100
Alpine
Higher than 98% of albums we've rated

The album's intricate structures and seamless transitions create a compelling and immersive jazz experience.

What we noticed

  • Several tracks incorporate extended improvisational sections that allow the musicians to explore themes in depth.
Composition 25% of the score
8/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
8/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
9/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. 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

  • introspective moments of reflection
  • spontaneous improvisation for curious minds
  • gentle exploration of emotional depth
  • short tracks for focused listening
  • contemplative soundscapes for solitude

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking upbeat party vibes
  • prefer straightforward catchy tunes

Where this album fits

Career context
Released on June 23, 2023, 'Beauty Is Enough' is Ambrose Akinmusire's fifth studio album, following the critically acclaimed 'On the Tender Spot of Every Calloused Moment' from 2020. At this point in his career, Akinmusire has solidified his place as a leading voice in contemporary jazz, known for pushing boundaries and integrating personal storytelling into his music.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 To: Taymoor 4:54
  • 2 2-> 1<- 2:13
  • 3 Carvin. 4:34
  • 4 Turns 1:48
  • 5 Launchpad 2:54
  • 6 Olusiji SR 3:12
  • 7 Off the Ledge 3:44
  • 8 To: Shabnam 4:11
  • 9 Achilles 2:18
  • 10 Boots and Jewels 1:18
  • 11 Wallace 2:03
  • 12 -Ann_ 2:34
  • 13 Rio 2:47
  • 14 Self -Portrait 3:30
  • 15 Sunknees 2:53
  • 16 Cora Campbell 3:41

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata