What makes Connected by Eivind Aarset notable?

Upon its release, 'Connected' received critical acclaim for its innovative approach and intricate sound design, influencing the nu jazz and electroacoustic scenes. The album's unique blend of styles helped to solidify Aarset's reputation as an important artist within contemporary jazz, attracting attention from both fans and critics alike. By the time 'Connected' was released in 2004, Eivind Aarset had already established himself as a significant figure in the ECM label roster, following his previous works like 'Sonic Codex' in 2001. This album marked a progression into more experimental territories, showcasing his ability to blend jazz with electronic elements and ambient influences while collaborating with notable musicians.

Who is Connected for?

Connected works well if you're into ethereal soundscapes for deep listening, patient unfolding with immersive textures and for late-night introspection.

How many songs are on Connected?

Connected has 10 tracks, running approximately 59 minutes.

Connected

Eivind Aarset · 2004

59 min · 10 tracks · jazz

Aarset weaves ambient soundscapes with intricate jazz motifs, creating a fluid exploration of sonic textures and emotional depth.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Connectic — This track exemplifies the album's fusion of electronic textures and jazz improvisation, creating a compelling dialogue between rhythm and melody.
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Feverish — With its driving beat and layered soundscapes, this piece captures the energy and innovation that characterizes Aarset's work throughout the album.
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Transmission — This track stands out for its atmospheric build-up and emotive guitar lines, embodying the essence of Aarset's sonic exploration in this project.
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Changing Waltz — The extended format allows for deep improvisational passages that showcase Aarset’s mastery in blending genres and creating immersive experiences.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

70 /100

Alpine

Higher than 94% of albums we've rated

Aarset's intricate sound design and fluid compositions create a distinctive and immersive jazz experience.

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

Influence 6/10

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

ethereal soundscapes for deep listening
patient unfolding with immersive textures
for late-night introspection
subtle shifts that invite focus

Maybe skip if you

seeking instant gratification
prefer upbeat, fast-paced tracks

Where this album fits

Career context: By the time 'Connected' was released in 2004, Eivind Aarset had already established himself as a significant figure in the ECM label roster, following his previous works like 'Sonic Codex' in 2001. This album marked a progression into more experimental territories, showcasing his ability to blend jazz with electronic elements and ambient influences while collaborating with notable musicians.
Stylistic neighbors: Nils Frahm· Jan Garbarek· Tord Gustavsen