What makes Four Dimensions by Don Patterson notable?

Four Dimensions is notable for its innovative use of organ-led arrangements that helped define the sound of soul jazz in the late 1960s. The album received positive critical reception and has been recognized as an influential work within the genre, inspiring a generation of jazz organists. Released in 1968, Four Dimensions marked Don Patterson's third album, showcasing his established presence in the jazz scene following his earlier works. At this time, Patterson was becoming known for his distinctive style as an organist, contributing to the burgeoning soul jazz movement alongside contemporaries like Jimmy Smith and Brother Jack McDuff.

How many songs are on Four Dimensions?

Four Dimensions has 5 tracks, running approximately 33 minutes.

Four Dimensions

Don Patterson · 1968

33 min · 5 tracks

A vibrant blend of soulful organ jazz infused with intricate rhythms and expressive improvisations.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Red Top — This track opens the album with a dynamic display of Patterson's virtuosity on the organ, featuring intricate solos that set the tone for the rest of the record.
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Embraceable You — Patterson's rendition transforms this standard into a lush, emotive exploration that highlights his ability to infuse classical melodies with jazz improvisation.
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Freddie Tooks Jr. — This composition showcases Patterson's knack for blending catchy melodies with complex rhythmic structures, making it a standout piece on the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

60 /100

Treeline

Higher than 66% of albums we've rated

The album combines strong compositions with skilled execution, making it a notable entry in soul jazz.

What we noticed

The album features extended improvisations, with each track averaging over six minutes, allowing for deep exploration of themes.
Patterson's organ leads the ensemble, often accompanied by a tight rhythm section that emphasizes syncopation and groove.
Each track showcases a distinct melodic motif that is revisited and developed throughout, creating a cohesive narrative within individual pieces.

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

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.

Tracklist

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

1 Red Top 10:16
2 Freddie Tooks Jr. 5:39
3 Last Train From Overbrook 3:55
4 Embraceable You 9:21
5 Sandu 4:46

What to play next

Listen next

Boppin' & Burnin'

1968

Go back to

Opus De Don

1968

Full Don Patterson discography Artists like Don Patterson

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata