Between Us cover

Between Us

Steve Cole · 2000

41 min · 10 tracks · jazz

Smooth saxophone melodies intertwine with rhythmic grooves, creating an inviting atmosphere of contemporary jazz.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Got It Goin' On — This opening track sets the tone with its infectious groove and catchy hook, showcasing Cole's signature saxophone style right from the start.
  • →
    So Into You — With its romantic vibe and lush arrangements, this track exemplifies the smooth jazz aesthetic that defines much of the album.
  • →
    Between Us — The title track encapsulates the emotional core of the album, featuring a heartfelt saxophone performance that resonates with themes of connection and intimacy.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental
46 /100
Foothills
Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

The album showcases solid saxophone work and grooves but lacks standout compositions that elevate it beyond its genre.

What we noticed

  • The album features smooth saxophone melodies that are often layered over rhythmic grooves, creating a consistent atmosphere.
  • Several tracks incorporate brief interludes that serve as transitions, maintaining the flow of the album.
  • The tempo remains relatively steady throughout, with only slight variations in pace between tracks.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
5/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

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

  • smooth melodies for relaxed evenings
  • inviting atmosphere for social gatherings
  • catchy grooves for lighthearted moments
  • short bursts of rhythmic energy

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer intense, fast-paced music
  • want complex, lengthy compositions

Where this album fits

Career context
When 'Between Us' was released in 2000, Steve Cole was establishing himself as a prominent figure in the smooth jazz genre. This album followed his debut, 'Stay Awhile', and marked a significant step in solidifying his sound and presence in the music industry.
Stylistic neighbors
David Sanborn· Kirk Whalum· Boney James

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Got It Goin' On 4:06
  • 2 From the Start 3:48
  • 3 Take Me Home To You 5:01
  • 4 So Into You 4:03
  • 5 For Your Love 4:25
  • 6 Interlude 1:56
  • 7 Together Again 4:04
  • 8 Between Us 5:21
  • 9 Waterfalls 4:03
  • 10 Funky D 4:25

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata