What does Comin' On Strong sound like?

A vibrant blend of smooth jazz melodies and expressive improvisations showcasing Moody's saxophone prowess. Rooted in jazz and big band music. Start with "In Other Words (Fly Me to the Moon)".

Is Comin' On Strong a good place to start with James Moody?

Yes, Comin' On Strong is recommended as a starting point for new James Moody listeners. A vibrant blend of smooth jazz melodies and expressive improvisations showcasing Moody's saxophone prowess. Released in 1963, Comin' On Strong marked James Moody's transition into a more mainstream jazz sound after his earlier bebop influences. This album followed his successful collaboration with notable artists, establishing him as a significant figure in the jazz scene during this period.

Who is Comin' On Strong for?

Comin' On Strong works well if you're into steady melodic journey throughout, soulful improvisations to savor and for evening relaxation.

How many songs are on Comin' On Strong?

Comin' On Strong has 8 tracks, running approximately 36 minutes.

Comin' On Strong

James Moody · 1963

36 min · 8 tracks · jazz

A vibrant blend of smooth jazz melodies and expressive improvisations showcasing Moody's saxophone prowess.

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Top tracks — play these first

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In Other Words (Fly Me to the Moon) Start here — This track showcases Moody's smooth saxophone tone and innovative phrasing, transforming a classic into a jazz staple that highlights his improvisational skills.
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Autumn Leaves — Moody's rendition of this timeless ballad emphasizes emotional depth and intricate melodic lines, illustrating his ability to convey complex feelings through music.
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Please Send Me Someone to Love — This track stands out with its soulful interpretation and heartfelt delivery, showcasing Moody's versatility and bringing a unique emotional weight to the performance.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

60 /100

Treeline

Higher than 66% of albums we've rated

Moody's saxophone work is expressive and well-crafted, with solid arrangements that highlight his transition to mainstream jazz.

What we noticed

The album features a consistent use of saxophone melodies that are often accompanied by lush, smooth jazz arrangements.
Each track typically showcases extended improvisation sections, allowing Moody to explore different tonalities and expressions.
The first three tracks maintain a moderate tempo, while the subsequent tracks introduce varied rhythms and dynamics.

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: 6/10

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

steady melodic journey throughout
soulful improvisations to savor
for evening relaxation
intimate moments with close friends

Maybe skip if you

seeking high-energy dance tracks
prefer standalone hit singles

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Marked Moody's transition to mainstream jazz, gaining commercial success.
Themes: smooth jazz improvisation· 1960s jazz evolution· emotional saxophone ballads
Career context: Released in 1963, Comin' On Strong marked James Moody's transition into a more mainstream jazz sound after his earlier bebop influences. This album followed his successful collaboration with notable artists, establishing him as a significant figure in the jazz scene during this period.
Stylistic neighbors: Stan Getz· Dexter Gordon· Sonny Rollins