What makes Float Upstream by Tom Rainey notable?

Float Upstream received critical acclaim for its innovative interpretations of classic jazz standards, gaining attention in avant-garde circles. It was noted for pushing the boundaries of traditional jazz while maintaining a deep respect for the genre's roots, influencing emerging artists exploring similar paths. Released in 2017, Float Upstream marks Tom Rainey's first album as a bandleader after years of collaboration with various avant-garde jazz artists. This album showcases his evolution into a prominent figure within the modern creative jazz scene, allowing his distinct voice to shine amidst a backdrop of established compositions.

How many songs are on Float Upstream?

Float Upstream has 7 tracks, running approximately 43 minutes.

Float Upstream

Tom Rainey · 2017

43 min · 7 tracks · jazz

A contemplative exploration of jazz standards, merging intricate improvisation with atmospheric textures and subtle emotional depth.

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Top tracks — play these first

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What's New — This track features an expansive arrangement that allows Rainey to showcase his unique approach to rhythm and texture, transforming a familiar standard into an immersive experience.
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Float Upstream — As the title track, it encapsulates the album's themes of introspection and fluidity, emphasizing Rainey's artistic vision through intricate interplay among musicians.
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There Is No Greater Love — The reinterpretation of this ballad highlights the emotional weight Rainey brings to performance, blending technical prowess with heartfelt expression.

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's intricate improvisation and atmospheric textures create a unique yet familiar jazz experience.

What we noticed

Tracks often shift dynamics fluidly, moving from quiet, contemplative passages to more intense, energetic exchanges between musicians.

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 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.

Tracklist

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

1 Stella by Starlight 5:15
2 Beatrice 6:21
3 What Is This Thing Called Love 4:02
4 What's New 10:35
5 There Is No Greater Love 6:48
6 Float Upstream 5:23
7 I Fall in Love Too Easily 4:53

What to play next

Listen next

Noise of Our Time

2018

Go back to

Hotel Grief

2015

Full Tom Rainey discography Artists like Tom Rainey

avant-garde jazz modern creative

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata