Top tracks — play these first
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When Will the Blues Leave Start here — This opening track sets the tone with its contemplative yet energetic improvisation, blending blues elements with innovative harmonies that capture Bley's distinct style.
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Floater — Showcasing Bley's ability to create complex textures, 'Floater' features intricate interplay among musicians, reflecting the avant-garde tendencies that define the album's character.
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Syndrome — 'Syndrome' exemplifies Bley's signature explorative approach through its dynamic structure and unexpected shifts, demonstrating the emotional depth inherent in his improvisational style.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalThe album's intricate melodies and improvisational nature mark it as a significant entry in avant-garde jazz.
What we noticed
- Each track showcases extended improvisational sections, allowing the musicians to explore themes rather than adhering strictly to predetermined structures.
- The interplay between piano and bass creates a dynamic conversation, with phrases often responding to each other rather than following a linear progression.
- Composition 25% of the score
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8/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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7/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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
- steady exploration of complex melodies
- thoughtful listening for focused moments
- consistent development throughout journey
- vibrant rhythms for afternoon relaxation
Maybe skip if you
- seeking instant gratification
- prefer short, standalone tracks
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Experimental — Marks a significant evolution in Bley's sound, advancing avant-garde jazz concepts.
- Themes
- avant-garde jazz evolution· experimental rhythms· blues-infused improvisation
- Career context
- When 'Footloose!' was released in 1963, Paul Bley was already established in the jazz scene, coming off his previous album 'Closer' (1962). This record marked a significant evolution in his approach, showcasing his transition towards more experimental and free-form styles that would define his later work. At this point, Bley was gaining recognition for his innovative contributions to jazz alongside influential contemporaries like Ornette Coleman.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Bill Evans· Keith Jarrett· Chick Corea
Tracklist
- 1 When Will the Blues Leave Start here 6:10
- 2 Floater 6:30
- 3 Turns 3:17
- 4 Around Again 4:09
- 5 Syndrome 7:11
- 6 Cousins 4:42
- 7 King Korn 4:02
- 8 Vashkar 4:08
If this landed
Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.
Unit Structures
Cecil Taylor
Explores complex structures and free improvisation with a blend of avant-garde jazz and blues elements.
The Shape of Jazz to Come
Ornette Coleman
Shares a groundbreaking approach to melody and rhythm, pushing boundaries of traditional jazz forms.
Cosmic Tones for Mental Therapy
Sun Ra
Combines experimental rhythms with a unique conceptual framework, aligning with avant-garde jazz's exploratory spirit.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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