Who is Extrapolation for?

Extrapolation works well if you're into wave-like pacing with surprises, dynamic explorations of sound and ethereal improvisations for reflection.

How many songs are on Extrapolation?

Extrapolation has 10 tracks, running approximately 40 minutes.

Extrapolation

John McLaughlin · 1969

40 min · 10 tracks · jazz

A vibrant blend of jazz exploration and ethereal improvisation, where complex rhythms intermingle with delicate melodic lines.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Extrapolation — The title track encapsulates McLaughlin's innovative guitar techniques and sets the thematic tone for the entire album through its intricate melodies and improvisational flair.
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Arjen's Bag — This track showcases a seamless blend of rhythmic complexity and melodic invention, highlighting McLaughlin's ability to fuse diverse musical elements while maintaining a cohesive sound.
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Binky's Dream — With its extended length and exploratory nature, this piece reveals McLaughlin’s deep engagement with improvisation, creating an atmospheric journey that captures the essence of his artistic vision.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

61 /100

Treeline

Higher than 71% of albums we've rated

McLaughlin's debut blends intricate guitar work with diverse rhythms, establishing a unique voice in jazz fusion.

What we noticed

The album features intricate guitar work that often shifts between rapid, complex phrases and slower, more melodic lines.
Each track typically showcases a different ensemble of musicians, creating varied textures and dynamics throughout the record.

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: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 6/10

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

wave-like pacing with surprises
dynamic explorations of sound
ethereal improvisations for reflection
engaging melodies for focused listening

Maybe skip if you

seekers of instant gratification
prefer straightforward song structures

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Established McLaughlin's reputation in jazz fusion, blending diverse influences.
Career context: Released in 1969, 'Extrapolation' was John McLaughlin's debut album as a bandleader after his work with the seminal group The Mahavishnu Orchestra. This album marked a significant step in his career, showcasing his innovative approach to jazz fusion and setting the stage for his influential role in the genre.
Stylistic neighbors: Mahavishnu Orchestra· Al Di Meola· Chick Corea