What makes Fast Forward by Spyro Gyra notable?

'Fast Forward' peaked at number 3 on the Billboard Contemporary Jazz chart, showcasing Spyro Gyra's ability to capture a broad audience within the jazz genre. The album also received positive critical reception, noted for its sophisticated sound and engaging compositions, which played a significant role in defining the smooth jazz movement of the early 1990s. By the time 'Fast Forward' was released in 1990, Spyro Gyra was already an established name in the jazz fusion scene, having gained recognition with their previous album 'Point of View' in 1988. This sixth studio album marked a continuation of their successful blend of smooth jazz and world influences, further solidifying their commercial appeal.

Who is Fast Forward for?

Fast Forward works well if you're into steady, consistent energy levels, vibrant background ambiance and relaxing yet engaging flow.

How many songs are on Fast Forward?

Fast Forward has 10 tracks, running approximately 48 minutes.

Fast Forward

Spyro Gyra · 1990

48 min · 10 tracks · jazz

A vibrant fusion of jazz and pop melodies intertwined with intricate rhythms and lush instrumentation.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Bright Lights — The opening track sets an energetic tone with its infectious groove and melodic hooks, embodying the album's vibrant spirit.
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Para Ti Latino — This track showcases Spyro Gyra's ability to incorporate Latin influences into their sound, highlighting their versatility and cultural breadth.
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Escape Hatch — With its dynamic interplay between instruments and rich harmonies, this track exemplifies the band’s technical prowess and innovative style.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album showcases intricate compositions and skilled performances, maintaining listener interest through varied rhythms and melodies.

What we noticed

The album features a consistent use of layered instrumentation, with multiple melodic lines interweaving throughout each track.
Several tracks, such as 'Para Ti Latino' and 'Ocean Parkway', incorporate distinct rhythmic shifts that create dynamic contrasts.
The closing track, 'Tower of Babel', builds in intensity with a gradual crescendo, culminating in a complex interplay of instruments.

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: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 4/10

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, consistent energy levels
vibrant background ambiance
relaxing yet engaging flow
inviting danceable rhythms

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Established wider recognition after prior success, peaking at number 3 on Billboard charts.
Themes: Latin rhythms· bright city lights· cultural fusion
Career context: By the time 'Fast Forward' was released in 1990, Spyro Gyra was already an established name in the jazz fusion scene, having gained recognition with their previous album 'Point of View' in 1988. This sixth studio album marked a continuation of their successful blend of smooth jazz and world influences, further solidifying their commercial appeal.
Stylistic neighbors: Chick Corea· Pat Metheny· Weather Report