Released 40 years ago
Cedar Walton
Cedar Walton · 1986
54 min · 7 tracks · jazz
A rich tapestry of intricate melodies and dynamic improvisation that exemplifies the essence of modern jazz.
Top tracks — play these first
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Third Street Blues — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its engaging melodic lines and rhythmic complexity, showcasing Walton's piano prowess.
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Magical Lady — Featuring lush harmonies and a captivating groove, this track highlights Walton's ability to blend traditional jazz elements with contemporary influences.
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Iron Clad — At over thirteen minutes, this extended piece allows for deep improvisation, revealing Walton’s skills as both a composer and an improviser within a group setting.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalThe album showcases sophisticated arrangements and dynamic improvisation typical of modern jazz.
What we noticed
- Each track allows for extended improvisation, with musicians taking turns to explore themes and motifs in a conversational manner.
- The overall tempo varies significantly across tracks, with some pieces maintaining a brisk pace while others slow down to create contrast.
- Composition 25% of the score
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8/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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7/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- 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
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
- intricate melodies with rich depth
- long tracks that invite exploration
- dynamic improvisation that captivates attention
- thoughtful listening for reflective moments
Maybe skip if you
- prefer fast-paced, short songs
- seek immediate, catchy satisfaction
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in 1986, Cedar Walton marked a significant point in the artist's career as he was establishing himself as a prominent figure in the jazz scene. Following his work with legendary groups like the Jazz Messengers, this album showcased his evolving style and mastery over composition and performance, solidifying his reputation.
- Stylistic neighbors
- McCoy Tyner· Chick Corea· Bill Evans
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Third Street Blues 7:13
- 2 Magical Lady 7:30
- 3 Short Comings 5:42
- 4 Voices Deep Within 8:50
- 5 I’ll Let You Know 7:24
- 6 Bleeker Street Team 5:06
- 7 Iron Clad 13:00
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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