What makes Dancing on the Tables by Niels-Henning Ørsted Pedersen notable?

This album is significant for its innovative approach to jazz, receiving praise for its intricate compositions and improvisational style. It has influenced subsequent generations of jazz musicians by demonstrating the creative possibilities within the genre, further solidifying Pedersen's reputation in the jazz community. Released in 1979, 'Dancing on the Tables' marked Niels-Henning Ørsted Pedersen's continued exploration of avant-garde jazz after establishing himself as a prominent bassist in the genre. This album came shortly after his collaboration with notable artists like Oscar Peterson, showcasing his growth as a bandleader and composer.

How many songs are on Dancing on the Tables?

Dancing on the Tables has 5 tracks, running approximately 39 minutes.

Dancing on the Tables

Niels-Henning Ørsted Pedersen · 1979

39 min · 5 tracks · jazz

A vibrant tapestry of jazz improvisation, blending melodic intricacies with dynamic rhythms that evoke a lively atmosphere.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Dancing on the Tables — The title track features an extended exploration of rhythm and melody, showcasing Pedersen's virtuosic bass playing while inviting interaction among the ensemble members.
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Evening Song — This track stands out for its contemplative mood and lush harmonies, illustrating Pedersen's ability to blend emotional depth with technical proficiency.
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Clouds — Through its atmospheric soundscapes and delicate interplay between instruments, this piece exemplifies the experimental edge present throughout the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album showcases intricate compositions and improvisation, reflecting Pedersen's innovative approach to jazz.

What we noticed

Each track features extended improvisation sections, allowing musicians to explore themes in depth.
The album opens with a lively title track that sets a brisk tempo, while the subsequent tracks vary in pace and mood.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 3/10

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.

Tracklist

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

1 Dancing on the Tables 14:49
2 Future Child 1:38
3 Jeg Gik Mig Ud En Sommerdag 3:33
4 Evening Song 9:30
5 Clouds 10:19

What to play next

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1977

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Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata