Easy Living cover

Easy Living

Enrico Rava · 2004

54 min · 9 tracks · jazz

A contemplative blend of melodic improvisation and atmospheric textures, navigating the boundaries of jazz with subtlety and elegance.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Cromosomi — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its expansive sound and intricate layering that highlights Rava's virtuosic trumpet play while creating a meditative atmosphere.
  • →
    Easy Living — The title track stands out for its lyrical beauty and emotional resonance, showcasing Rava’s ability to weave complex melodies that evoke a sense of longing.
  • →
    Sand — With its extended runtime, this track allows for deep improvisational exploration, displaying the interplay between Rava and his ensemble while encapsulating the album's reflective nature.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental
63 /100
Treeline
Higher than 74% of albums we've rated

The album's intricate arrangements and melodic exploration create a thoughtful listening experience, though its impact remains more niche.

What we noticed

  • The album features a consistent use of soft dynamics, with most tracks maintaining a subdued volume that encourages close listening.
  • Each track typically revolves around a central melodic theme, which is then explored through improvisation by the trumpet and supporting instruments.
  • The arrangements often include layers of atmospheric textures created by piano and subtle percussion, enhancing the contemplative mood throughout.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
8/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. 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

  • serene exploration of soundscapes
  • patient unfolding of melodies
  • background warmth for relaxation
  • thoughtful reflections during listening

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking instant gratification
  • prefer upbeat, fast-paced tracks

Where this album fits

Career context
By the time 'Easy Living' was released in 2004, Enrico Rava had established himself as a prominent figure in jazz, known for his distinct trumpet style. This album followed his acclaimed 2002 release 'Tati', showcasing Rava's continued exploration of rich soundscapes and emotional depth in his compositions.
Stylistic neighbors
Paolo Fresu· Tomasz Stańko· Mark Turner

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Cromosomi 8:26
  • 2 Drops 2:28
  • 3 Sand 9:18
  • 4 Easy Living 4:14
  • 5 Algir Dalbughi 6:36
  • 6 Blancasnow 2:35
  • 7 Traveling Night 7:12
  • 8 Hornette and the Drums Thing 7:10
  • 9 Rain 6:46

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata