Earthquation
David S. Ware · 1994
56 min · 7 tracks · jazz
A vibrant exploration of avant-garde jazz, weaving complex improvisations and rhythmic intricacies into a cohesive sonic tapestry.
Top tracks — play these first
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Inverse Alchemy — This track exemplifies Ware's unique blend of free jazz elements with structured improvisation, showcasing both technical prowess and emotional depth.
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Cococana — With its lengthy exploration of rhythm and melody, Cococana stands out as a centerpiece that highlights the band's synergy and Ware's visionary leadership.
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Earthquation — The title track encapsulates the album's overarching themes of transformation and balance, featuring intricate solos that push the boundaries of jazz expression.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalThe album showcases complex improvisation and unique rhythmic structures, marking it as a significant work in avant-garde jazz.
What we noticed
- The album features extended improvisational sections, with each track often exceeding six minutes, allowing for deep exploration of themes.
- Rhythmic patterns shift frequently, creating a dynamic interplay between the musicians that challenges traditional jazz structures.
- The use of dissonance and unconventional scales is prevalent throughout, particularly in the saxophone lines, which drive the melodic content.
- Composition 25% of the score
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8/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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7/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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8/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Significant within its genre. 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
- gradual build to immersive climax
- extended tracks for deep exploration
- reflective moments of serene beauty
- challenging soundscapes for adventurous listeners
Maybe skip if you
- prefer quick, catchy tunes
- seek straightforward listening experiences
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in 1994, Earthquation is David S. Ware's fourth album and marks a significant moment in his career as he was establishing himself as a leading voice in avant-garde jazz. Following the success of his prior albums, this record showcases his innovative approach to saxophone playing and ensemble dynamics during a period when jazz was diversifying its expressions.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Matthew Shipp· Sun Ra· Ornette Coleman
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Canadian Sunset 7:32
- 2 Inverse Alchemy 8:54
- 3 Tenderly 5:35
- 4 Ideational Blue 8:26
- 5 Cococana 11:32
- 6 Tenderly 4:45
- 7 Earthquation 9:18
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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