Top tracks — play these first
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Remember Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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Ella Speed — This track stands out for its vibrant energy and intricate interplay between the ensemble and soloists, capturing the essence of Evans's innovative style.
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Just One of Those Things — The arrangement features lush harmonies and a subtle complexity that highlights Evans's knack for transforming standards into fresh compositions.
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Jambangle — As an original composition, this track exemplifies Evans's adventurous spirit and ability to blend various musical influences seamlessly.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalEvans's orchestral approach and intricate arrangements mark a significant contribution to cool jazz.
What we noticed
- The album features lush orchestration with a prominent use of brass and woodwinds, creating a rich harmonic texture.
- Each track showcases intricate arrangements that allow for extended solos, particularly from the trumpet and piano.
- The tempo varies significantly across tracks, with some maintaining a steady groove while others explore more complex rhythms.
- 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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8/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- 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 mid-tempo orchestral flow
- intricate arrangements for detail lovers
- rich textures for focused listening
- immersive experience through improvisation
Maybe skip if you
- prefer fast-paced, energetic tracks
- seek straightforward, catchy songs
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Breakthrough — Established Gil Evans's reputation as a leader in orchestral jazz arrangements.
- Career context
- In 1958, Gil Evans was establishing his unique voice in jazz, following the success of his work on Miles Davis's 'Birth of the Cool'. 'Gil Evans & Ten' marks his transition into leading his own ensemble after gaining recognition as an innovative arranger and composer. This album showcases his ability to blend orchestral elements with jazz improvisation, further defining his artistic identity.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Miles Davis· Charles Mingus· Ornette Coleman
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Nobody's Heart
The narrative voice expresses deep longing through a poignant reflection on lost love, underscored by a delicate instrumental backdrop.
The choice to emphasize emotional introspection amidst lush instrumentation reveals Evans's skill in creating atmosphere that complements lyrical themes.
Tracklist
- 1 Remember Start here 4:34
- 2 Ella Speed 5:50
- 3 Big Stuff 4:49
- 4 Nobody's Heart 4:26
- 5 Just One of Those Things 4:26
- 6 If You Could See Me Now 4:18
- 7 Jambangle 4:57
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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