Is Big Swing Face a good place to start with Buddy Rich?

Yes, Big Swing Face is recommended as a starting point for new Buddy Rich listeners. A vibrant showcase of big band jazz, merging intricate rhythm with energetic improvisation and Rich's explosive drumming. Released in 1967, 'Big Swing Face' marked Buddy Rich’s return to the studio after a series of successful live albums. At this point in his career, he was solidifying his reputation not just as a drummer but as a bandleader, showcasing his ensemble’s versatility and musical prowess on this album.

Who is Big Swing Face for?

Big Swing Face works well if you're into dynamic rhythmic journey throughout, electrifying solos for engagement and wave-like pacing for exploration.

How many songs are on Big Swing Face?

Big Swing Face has 18 tracks, running approximately 69 minutes.

Big Swing Face

Buddy Rich

69 min · 18 tracks · jazz

A vibrant showcase of big band jazz, merging intricate rhythm with energetic improvisation and Rich's explosive drumming.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Norwegian Wood Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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Big Swing Face — The title track exemplifies Rich's dynamic drumming style while featuring complex rhythms and spirited ensemble playing, making it a highlight of the album.
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Monitor Theme — This track showcases Rich's ability to blend structured composition with spontaneous improvisation, creating an engaging listening experience.
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Love for Sale — Rich's interpretation of this classic standard highlights his skill in transforming traditional melodies through innovative arrangements and powerful performance.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

Rich's energetic drumming and intricate arrangements define this vibrant big band jazz album.

What we noticed

Several tracks include extended improvisational sections where different instruments take turns leading, creating a dynamic interplay among the musicians.
The arrangement of 'Love for Sale' contrasts with the more upbeat tracks by incorporating slower tempos and a more subdued atmosphere, providing variety within the album.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

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

dynamic rhythmic journey throughout
electrifying solos for engagement
wave-like pacing for exploration
for lively gatherings

Maybe skip if you

prefer instant gratification tracks
avoid lengthy listening experiences

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Established Rich's reputation with high-energy big band jazz in the late 1960s.
Themes: big band energy· 1960s jazz revival· infectious grooves
Career context: Released in 1967, 'Big Swing Face' marked Buddy Rich’s return to the studio after a series of successful live albums. At this point in his career, he was solidifying his reputation not just as a drummer but as a bandleader, showcasing his ensemble’s versatility and musical prowess on this album.
Stylistic neighbors: Gene Krupa· Art Blakey· Elvin Jones