What makes Desperado by Pat Martino notable?

This album is notable for its innovative approach to jazz fusion, contributing to the genre's evolution in the early '70s. It received critical acclaim and helped solidify Martino's reputation as a leading guitarist, influencing countless musicians within the jazz community. Desperado is Pat Martino's third album, released in 1970 during a period of artistic maturation following his debut. By this time, he had established himself as a prominent guitarist in the jazz scene, building on the successes of his earlier works with increasingly complex compositions.

Who is Desperado for?

Desperado works well if you're into vibrant improvisations that energize, soulful melodies for reflective moments and dynamic shifts in pacing.

How many songs are on Desperado?

Desperado has 6 tracks, running approximately 36 minutes.

Desperado

Pat Martino · 1970

36 min · 6 tracks · jazz fusion

A vibrant blend of jazz fusion and soul jazz, showcasing intricate guitar work against a backdrop of rich, rhythmic textures.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Blackjack — This opening track features dynamic interplay between Martino's guitar and the rhythm section, setting an energetic tone for the album. Its intricate solos showcase Martino's technical prowess and compositional skills.
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Desperado — The title track stands out with its moody atmosphere and emotive guitar lines that reflect both vulnerability and strength. This piece encapsulates Martino's ability to convey deep emotion through improvisation.
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Oleo — Martino's rendition of this classic showcases his unique melodic interpretation and rhythmic syncopation. The track highlights his mastery of blending traditional jazz with contemporary elements.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

60 /100

Treeline

Higher than 66% of albums we've rated

The album features intricate compositions and strong guitar work, though it doesn't fully redefine its genre.

What we noticed

The album opens with a fast-paced track featuring intricate guitar solos that set a high energy level.
Each track showcases varying tempos and rhythmic patterns, with the guitar often leading melodic lines over complex chord progressions.
The last two tracks slow down significantly, creating a contrast that allows for more introspective playing.

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: 6/10

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

vibrant improvisations that energize
soulful melodies for reflective moments
dynamic shifts in pacing
for afternoon relaxation

Maybe skip if you

prefer straightforward structures
seek instant gratification tracks

Where this album fits

Career context: Desperado is Pat Martino's third album, released in 1970 during a period of artistic maturation following his debut. By this time, he had established himself as a prominent guitarist in the jazz scene, building on the successes of his earlier works with increasingly complex compositions.
Stylistic neighbors: John Scofield· Mike Stern· Larry Coryell