Is Figure & Spirit a good place to start with Lee Konitz?

Yes, Figure & Spirit is recommended as a starting point for new Lee Konitz listeners. A contemplative blend of cool jazz harmonies and intricate melodic lines that evoke a sense of introspective exploration. In 1977, Lee Konitz was in the midst of a prolific period, having already established himself as a significant figure in the jazz community since the 1940s. 'Figure & Spirit' marked his continued evolution as an artist, showcasing his distinctive style and improvisational skill while being a follow-up to several acclaimed works earlier in the decade.

Who is Figure & Spirit for?

Figure & Spirit works well if you're into patient explorations of musical themes, introspective moments of quiet reflection and thoughtful melodies that linger.

How many songs are on Figure & Spirit?

Figure & Spirit has 7 tracks, running approximately 49 minutes.

Figure & Spirit

Lee Konitz · 1977

49 min · 7 tracks · jazz

A contemplative blend of cool jazz harmonies and intricate melodic lines that evoke a sense of introspective exploration.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Figure and Spirit Start here — The title track serves as a profound introduction to the album's themes, blending lyrical saxophone melodies with rich harmonic textures that define Konitz's style.
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Dream Stepper — This track features intricate exchanges between instruments, embodying Konitz's signature conversational style and showcasing his ability to weave complex musical narratives.
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April — With its extended length, this piece allows for deep exploration of motifs and improvisation, highlighting Konitz's mastery in sustaining melodic development over time.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

patient explorations of musical themes
introspective moments of quiet reflection
thoughtful melodies that linger
subtle shifts in emotional tone

Maybe skip if you

prefer high-energy, upbeat tracks
want immediate, catchy hooks

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Deep Cut — A solid album that showcases Konitz's style but isn't widely recognized or essential.
Themes: introspective exploration· conversational improvisation
Career context: In 1977, Lee Konitz was in the midst of a prolific period, having already established himself as a significant figure in the jazz community since the 1940s. 'Figure & Spirit' marked his continued evolution as an artist, showcasing his distinctive style and improvisational skill while being a follow-up to several acclaimed works earlier in the decade.
Stylistic neighbors: Paul Desmond· Stan Getz· Ornette Coleman