Is Current Events (album) a good place to start with John Abercrombie?

Yes, Current Events (album) is recommended as a starting point for new John Abercrombie listeners. A blend of intricate melodies and improvisational flair, merging contemporary jazz with the exploratory spirit of fusion. By the time 'Current Events' was released in 1986, John Abercrombie had already established himself as a significant figure in the jazz scene, following his acclaimed 1984 album 'Getting There'. This release marked a continuation of his innovative approach to blending jazz with other genres, showcasing his unique guitar style alongside prominent musicians such as Jack DeJohnette and Dave Holland.

Who is Current Events (album) for?

Current Events (album) works well if you're into steady melodic explorations throughout, intricate details for headphone listening and captivating improvisation moments.

How many songs are on Current Events (album)?

Current Events (album) has 7 tracks, running approximately 48 minutes.

Released 40 years ago

Current Events (album)

John Abercrombie · 1986

48 min · 7 tracks · jazz fusion

A blend of intricate melodies and improvisational flair, merging contemporary jazz with the exploratory spirit of fusion.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Clint Start here — Opening with a captivating interplay between guitar and piano, this track sets the tone for the album's exploration of complex rhythms and harmonies.
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Alice in Wonderland — Abercrombie's interpretation transforms this classic into an ethereal journey, emphasizing his knack for melding traditional structures with avant-garde sensibilities.
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Hippityville — This track features an infectious groove that showcases Abercrombie's fluid guitar work and the dynamic interplay among the ensemble, creating an energetic highlight.
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Still — The closing track offers a reflective and atmospheric soundscape, allowing listeners to experience Abercrombie's emotive playing in a more subdued yet powerful context.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

63 /100

Treeline

Higher than 74% of albums we've rated

Abercrombie's blend of intricate melodies and improvisation creates a compelling jazz fusion experience.

What we noticed

The album features a consistent use of intricate guitar melodies that intertwine with fluid keyboard lines, creating a rich tapestry of sound.
The final track, 'Still', serves as a reflective conclusion, contrasting with the more energetic pieces earlier in the album.

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: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. 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 explorations throughout
intricate details for headphone listening
captivating improvisation moments
ideal for reflective afternoons
engaging transitions between tracks

Maybe skip if you

prefer instant gratification tracks
need high-energy party music

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Critical Peak — Showcases Abercrombie's artistic growth and received significant acclaim in jazz circles.
Themes: avant-garde jazz exploration· interplay of melodies· ethereal soundscapes
Career context: By the time 'Current Events' was released in 1986, John Abercrombie had already established himself as a significant figure in the jazz scene, following his acclaimed 1984 album 'Getting There'. This release marked a continuation of his innovative approach to blending jazz with other genres, showcasing his unique guitar style alongside prominent musicians such as Jack DeJohnette and Dave Holland.
Stylistic neighbors: Pat Metheny· Bill Frisell· Larry Coryell