What makes Beyond Standard by Hiromi Uehara notable?

The album received widespread critical acclaim, praised for its innovative arrangements and virtuosic performances. It marked a significant entry in Uehara's discography, showcasing her ability to reinterpret classic jazz pieces through a contemporary lens, influencing both listeners and fellow musicians within the jazz community. Upon the release of 'Beyond Standard' in 2008, Hiromi Uehara was already an established figure in the jazz world, known for her energetic performances and innovative compositions. This album followed her critically acclaimed work 'Time Control' (2007) and further solidified her reputation as a leading jazz pianist and composer, blending traditional standards with her unique style.

Who is Beyond Standard for?

Beyond Standard works well if you're into steady melodic progression throughout, vibrant piano artistry on display and for focused listening.

How many songs are on Beyond Standard?

Beyond Standard has 9 tracks, running approximately 59 minutes.

Beyond Standard

Hiromi Uehara · 2008

59 min · 9 tracks · jazz

A vibrant exploration of jazz standards infused with avant-garde flair and intricate improvisation, showcasing virtuosity and emotional depth.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Caravan — This track highlights Uehara's skillful fusion of rhythmic complexity and melodic improvisation, transforming a well-known standard into an exhilarating showcase of her artistry.
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My Favorite Things — Uehara’s rendition infuses fresh energy into this classic, featuring intricate piano work that reinterprets the familiar melody while maintaining its core essence.
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Led Boots — This piece exemplifies Uehara's ability to blend genres, with its dynamic interplay between jazz and rock elements that captures the listener's attention throughout.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

73 /100

Alpine

Higher than 96% of albums we've rated

Hiromi Uehara's virtuosic piano work and innovative arrangements create a distinct and engaging jazz experience.

What we noticed

The album opens with a brief intro that transitions into the full version of 'Softly as in a Morning Sunrise', creating a thematic continuity.
Each track features extensive improvisation, with the piano often taking center stage while the rhythm section provides dynamic support.
Several tracks, such as 'Clair de lune' and 'My Favorite Things', reinterpret familiar melodies through complex arrangements and unexpected tempo shifts.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 9/10
Durability 25% of the score: 7/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 3/10

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

steady melodic progression throughout
vibrant piano artistry on display
for focused listening
satisfying exploration of familiar classics

Maybe skip if you

prefer fast-paced, high-energy tracks
seek standalone hit singles

Where this album fits

Career context: Upon the release of 'Beyond Standard' in 2008, Hiromi Uehara was already an established figure in the jazz world, known for her energetic performances and innovative compositions. This album followed her critically acclaimed work 'Time Control' (2007) and further solidified her reputation as a leading jazz pianist and composer, blending traditional standards with her unique style.
Stylistic neighbors: Tigran Hamasyan· Robert Glasper· Brad Mehldau