What makes DAO by David S. Ware notable?

'DAO' is notable for its bold exploration of form and sound within the jazz genre, receiving praise from critics and contributing to the avant-garde movement of the 1990s. The album was well-received by publications such as 'The Village Voice', which recognized Ware's innovative spirit and influence on contemporary jazz musicians. When David S. Ware released 'DAO' in 1996, he was establishing himself as a key figure in avant-garde jazz following his critically acclaimed album 'Live in the World' from 1994. This album marked a significant development in his career, showcasing his unique approach to saxophone playing and composition during a period when he was gaining recognition for pushing the boundaries of jazz.

DAO works well if you're into sprawling exploration of sound, gradual build to conclusion and immersive headphone detail hunting.

How many songs are on DAO?

DAO has 7 tracks, running approximately 72 minutes.

Released 30 years ago

DAO

David S. Ware · 1996

72 min · 7 tracks · jazz

A swirling blend of free jazz improvisation and meditative soundscapes that invites deep listening and introspection.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Motif Dao — This track exemplifies Ware's ability to weave complex themes through improvisational structures, creating an immersive auditory experience that reflects the album's conceptual depth.
→
Dao Forms — At nearly twenty minutes long, this centerpiece showcases expansive group dynamics and intricate solos, encapsulating the spiritual essence that permeates the entire album.
→
Rhythm Dao — With its pulsating rhythms and textured layers, this track highlights Ware's innovative use of rhythm to challenge traditional jazz forms while maintaining an engaging flow.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

73 /100

Alpine

Higher than 96% of albums we've rated

The album's seamless flow and strong improvisation create a compelling listening experience within avant-garde jazz.

What we noticed

The album features extended improvisational sections, with each track often exceeding six minutes and allowing for deep exploration of themes.
The instrumentation varies throughout, with saxophone leading in some tracks while percussion and bass take more prominent roles in others.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 8/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 9/10

Influence 4/10

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

sprawling exploration of sound
gradual build to conclusion
immersive headphone detail hunting
thoughtful afternoon listening session

Maybe skip if you

prefer instant gratification tracks
seek concise standalone pieces

Where this album fits

Career context: When David S. Ware released 'DAO' in 1996, he was establishing himself as a key figure in avant-garde jazz following his critically acclaimed album 'Live in the World' from 1994. This album marked a significant development in his career, showcasing his unique approach to saxophone playing and composition during a period when he was gaining recognition for pushing the boundaries of jazz.
Stylistic neighbors: Matthew Shipp· Sun Ra· Ornette Coleman

Tracklist

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

1 Interdao 6:22
2 Motif Dao 9:38
3 Rhythm Dao 7:01
4 Tao Above Sky 7:37
5 Dao Forms 18:17
6 Dao Feel 8:29
7 Dao 15:19

What to play next

Listen next

Wisdom of Uncertainty

1997

Go back to

Godspelized

1996

Full David S. Ware discography Artists like David S. Ware

avant-garde music jazz

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata