For Real!
Hampton Hawes · 1961
46 min · 6 tracks · jazz
A vibrant blend of intricate melodies and rhythmic improvisations that captures the essence of early 1960s jazz.
Top tracks — play these first
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Wrap Your Troubles in Dreams — This track features a lush arrangement that allows Hawes to showcase his lyrical playing while balancing emotional depth with technical prowess.
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For Real — The title track stands out with its extended form, allowing for expansive improvisation that highlights Hawes' creativity and command over the piano.
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Crazeology (Little Bennie) — This piece is notable for its complex rhythm changes and energetic tempo, demonstrating the intricate interplay between the ensemble members.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalThe album features strong compositions with intricate melodies and solid craftsmanship, making it a notable entry in early '60s jazz.
What we noticed
- The album features a consistent use of intricate piano melodies that are often accompanied by a tight rhythm section, creating a dynamic interplay.
- Each track showcases extended improvisation sections, allowing the musicians to explore themes in depth rather than adhering strictly to written arrangements.
- The first three tracks maintain an upbeat tempo, while the last three gradually introduce more contemplative and slower-paced pieces.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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6/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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
- intricate melodies with rhythmic improvisations
- vibrant energy for social gatherings
- long tracks that invite exploration
- cathartic moments of musical release
Maybe skip if you
- prefer short, concise tracks
- want constant high-energy pacing
Where this album fits
- Career context
- For Real! was released in 1961, marking Hampton Hawes' third studio album. At this point in his career, he was establishing himself as a prominent figure in the West Coast jazz scene, following his earlier works like The Sermon and This Is Hampton Hawes. This album showcased his innovative piano style and deepened his exploration of bebop.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Thelonious Monk· Bill Evans· Cecil Taylor
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Hip 6:19
- 2 Wrap Your Troubles in Dreams 9:23
- 3 Crazeology (Little Bennie) 6:47
- 4 Numbers Game 8:08
- 5 For Real 11:23
- 6 I Love You 3:59
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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