Is Easy as Pie a good place to start with Gary Burton?

Yes, Easy as Pie is recommended as a starting point for new Gary Burton listeners. A vibrant blend of jazz fusion and improvisation that dances between intricate melodies and rhythmic complexity. Released in 1981, Easy as Pie marked a significant moment for Gary Burton as it was his first album following his transition to the ECM label. At this point in his career, Burton was already an established figure in jazz, known for his innovative approach to the vibraphone and for pioneering the jazz fusion sound. This album showcases his continued evolution as both a performer and a composer.

Who is Easy as Pie for?

Easy as Pie works well if you're into steady pacing with gradual build, intricate melodies for focused listening and engaging rhythms for attentive enjoyment.

How many songs are on Easy as Pie?

Easy as Pie has 6 tracks, running approximately 47 minutes.

Easy as Pie

Gary Burton · 1981

47 min · 6 tracks · jazz

A vibrant blend of jazz fusion and improvisation that dances between intricate melodies and rhythmic complexity.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Reactionary Tango Start here — This track opens the album with an ambitious interplay of rhythms and melodic lines, showcasing Burton's virtuosic vibraphone work alongside intricate ensemble playing.
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Blame It on My Youth — Burton’s interpretation of this standard highlights his ability to infuse emotional depth into familiar melodies, making it a standout moment on the album.
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Isfahan — This piece exemplifies the album's blend of Eastern influences with jazz elements, demonstrating Burton's knack for creating atmospheric soundscapes.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

64 /100

Treeline

Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album's intricate melodies and rhythmic complexity create a vibrant jazz fusion experience.

What we noticed

The album features a consistent use of vibraphone as the lead instrument, creating a distinct sound throughout.
The final track, 'Stardancer', incorporates a gradual build-up of intensity, culminating in an expansive improvisational section.

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

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

steady pacing with gradual build
intricate melodies for focused listening
engaging rhythms for attentive enjoyment
for afternoon relaxation

Maybe skip if you

seeks instant gratification
prefers standalone tracks

Where this album fits

Themes: vibrant jazz fusion· cultural curiosity· melodic improvisation
Career context: Released in 1981, Easy as Pie marked a significant moment for Gary Burton as it was his first album following his transition to the ECM label. At this point in his career, Burton was already an established figure in jazz, known for his innovative approach to the vibraphone and for pioneering the jazz fusion sound. This album showcases his continued evolution as both a performer and a composer.
Stylistic neighbors: Chick Corea· Pat Metheny· Herbie Hancock