Eclypso cover

Eclypso

Tommy Flanagan · 1980

42 min · 7 tracks · jazz

A vibrant blend of bebop and modal jazz, showcasing intricate melodies and rhythmic interplay from a seasoned ensemble.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Oleo — This track captures the essence of Flanagan's intricate piano style combined with lively improvisation from the ensemble, setting the tone for the album.
  • →
    Eclypso — The title track showcases Flanagan's compositional skills and features extended improvisation that highlights the synergy between the musicians.
  • →
    Relaxin' at Camarillo — This rendition reflects Flanagan's ability to breathe new life into classic pieces while maintaining an engaging groove throughout.

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 displays strong compositions and skilled musicianship, though it may not have widespread recognition.

What we noticed

  • The album features a consistent use of intricate melodies that are often exchanged between the piano and horns, creating a dynamic interplay.
  • Each track maintains a strong rhythmic foundation, with varying tempos that shift from upbeat to more contemplative sections.
  • The title track 'Eclypso' showcases complex chord progressions and an extended improvisational section, highlighting the ensemble's virtuosity.
Composition 25% of the score
8/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

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
6/10

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

  • dynamic journey with emotional peaks
  • vibrant melodies for focused listening
  • soulful moments for afternoon relaxation
  • captivating intricacies for deep engagement

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer instant gratification tracks
  • seek straightforward, predictable rhythms

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 1980, Eclypso is Tommy Flanagan's second album as a bandleader after his debut, The Tommy Flanagan Trio. At this point in his career, Flanagan had already established himself as a prominent pianist in the jazz scene, known for his work with legends like Ella Fitzgerald and John Coltrane.
Stylistic neighbors
McCoy Tyner· Bill Evans· Chick Corea

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Oleo 4:05
  • 2 Denzil's Best 5:27
  • 3 A Blue Time 6:10
  • 4 Relaxin' at Camarillo 4:32
  • 5 Cup Bearers 3:43
  • 6 Eclypso 12:21
  • 7 Confirmation 6:04

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata