Released 67 years ago this November
Blowin' the Blues Away
Horace Silver · 1959
42 min · 8 tracks · jazz
A vibrant fusion of intricate melodies and rhythmic complexity that defines the hard bop jazz movement.
Top tracks — play these first
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Blowin' the Blues Away Start here — The title track exemplifies Silver's signature blend of rhythmic drive and melodic inventiveness, serving as a perfect introduction to the album's themes.
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Sister Sadie — This track stands out with its memorable hook and infectious groove, becoming an anthem within the hard bop genre that many artists have since embraced.
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Peace — With its contemplative atmosphere and rich harmonies, this piece showcases Silver's lyrical approach to composition, contrasting the upbeat energy of other tracks.
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 rhythmic complexity, characteristic of hard bop, with strong compositional elements.
What we noticed
- The album features a consistent use of call-and-response between the piano and horns, creating a dynamic interplay throughout.
- The first three tracks are upbeat and lively, while the latter half introduces more contemplative pieces, altering the emotional landscape.
- Composition 25% of the score
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8/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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7/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Significant within its genre. 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
- long, immersive listening sessions
- dynamic emotional journeys
- layered, dense sonic textures
- contemplative late-night vibes
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Breakthrough — This album solidified Silver's reputation in the hard bop genre.
- Career context
- Released in late 1959, Blowin' the Blues Away marked Horace Silver's fifth album and solidified his role as a leading figure in the hard bop genre. Following the success of his earlier works, this album showcased his evolving compositional style, blending bluesy elements with sophisticated arrangements.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Art Blakey· Thelonious Monk· McCoy Tyner
Tracklist
- 1 Blowin' the Blues Away Start here 4:45
- 2 The St. Vitus Dance 4:09
- 3 Break City 4:57
- 4 Peace 6:02
- 5 Sister Sadie 6:19
- 6 The Baghdad Blues 4:52
- 7 Melancholy Mood 7:10
- 8 How Did It Happen 4:40
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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