Crystal cover

Crystal

Ahmad Jamal · 1987

44 min · 10 tracks · post-bop · hard bop · cool jazz

A rich tapestry of melodic explorations woven through intricate piano improvisations and subtle rhythmic interplay.

Why this album works

Best for
steady melodic explorations throughout intricate piano improvisations shine thoughtful moments for reflection
Context
In 1987, Ahmad Jamal released 'Crystal' as his first album after a five-year hiatus, following the critically acclaimed 'Live at the Pershing: But Not for Me'. This period marked a reinvigoration in his career, showcasing his mastery of jazz while shifting towards more contemporary sounds.
If you like
post-bop, hard bop, cool jazz

Crystal is an album by Ahmad Jamal, released in 1987. A rich tapestry of melodic explorations woven through intricate piano improvisations and subtle rhythmic interplay. 'Crystal' received favorable reviews upon release, contributing to Jamal's reputation as a leading figure in jazz. The album highlighted his innovative piano techniques and influenced many musicians within the post-bop movement, cementing his legacy even further. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Crystal sound like?

A rich tapestry of melodic explorations woven through intricate piano improvisations and subtle rhythmic interplay. Rooted in post-bop and hard bop.

What makes Crystal by Ahmad Jamal notable?

'Crystal' received favorable reviews upon release, contributing to Jamal's reputation as a leading figure in jazz. The album highlighted his innovative piano techniques and influenced many musicians within the post-bop movement, cementing his legacy even further. In 1987, Ahmad Jamal released 'Crystal' as his first album after a five-year hiatus, following the critically acclaimed 'Live at the Pershing: But Not for Me'. This period marked a reinvigoration in his career, showcasing his mastery of jazz while shifting towards more contemporary sounds.

Who is Crystal for?

Crystal works well if you're into steady melodic explorations throughout, intricate piano improvisations shine and thoughtful moments for reflection.

How many songs are on Crystal?

Crystal has 10 tracks, running approximately 44 minutes.

Tracklist

10 tracks·44:28

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

  • 1 Quest for Light Standout 4:49
  • 2 Arabesque 4:46
  • 3 Avo 7:04
  • 4 Piano Solo 1:58
  • 5 For My Daughter Standout 3:34
  • 6 Perugia 3:57
  • 7 The Last Day Standout 6:02
  • 8 Crystal 4:59
  • 9 Swahililand 4:08
  • 10 The Canteen 3:06

Release Date

January 1, 1987

Genre

cool jazz, hard bop, post-bop

More albums in cool jazz

Artist Origin

United States

Runtime

44 min 28 sec