What makes Crossing the Tracks by Béla Fleck notable?

This album is significant for its innovative blend of bluegrass and jazz styles, paving the way for new approaches within both genres. It received critical acclaim, establishing Fleck as a prominent figure in the acoustic music scene and influencing countless musicians seeking to push traditional boundaries. Crossing the Tracks is Béla Fleck's debut solo album, released in 1979 after his tenure with the progressive bluegrass band New Grass Revival. At this point in his career, Fleck was beginning to establish himself as a groundbreaking banjo player, merging traditional bluegrass with jazz influences. This album set the stage for his future explorations across various genres.

Who is Crossing the Tracks for?

Crossing the Tracks works well if you're into playful interludes for gatherings, short bursts of vibrant energy and easygoing afternoon enjoyment.

How many songs are on Crossing the Tracks?

Crossing the Tracks has 11 tracks, running approximately 37 minutes.

Crossing the Tracks

Béla Fleck · 1979

37 min · 11 tracks · jazz · bluegrass music

A vibrant fusion of bluegrass and jazz, showcasing intricate banjo work and rich instrumental interplay.

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Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

playful interludes for gatherings
short bursts of vibrant energy
easygoing afternoon enjoyment
intricate melodies for focus

Maybe skip if you want

prefer lengthy, immersive pieces
want consistent tempo throughout

Where this album fits

Career context: Crossing the Tracks is Béla Fleck's debut solo album, released in 1979 after his tenure with the progressive bluegrass band New Grass Revival. At this point in his career, Fleck was beginning to establish himself as a groundbreaking banjo player, merging traditional bluegrass with jazz influences. This album set the stage for his future explorations across various genres.
Stylistic neighbors: Chris Thile· Punch Brothers· Nickel Creek

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Dear Old Dixie 2:39
2 Inman Square 4:00
3 Texas Barbeque 3:59
4 Growling Old Man and Grumbling Old Woman 1:41
5 Spain 7:12
6 Crossing the Tracks 3:38
7 Spring Thaw 2:27
8 How Can You Face Me Now 4:54
9 Twilight 2:01
10 Frosty Morning 2:58
11 Ain't Gonna Work Tomorrow 2:26

What to play next

Listen next

Natural Bridge

1982

Full Béla Fleck discography Artists like Béla Fleck

bluegrass music jazz

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata