Gouache cover

Gouache

Jacky Terrasson · 2012

50 min · 10 tracks · jazz

A vibrant blend of contemporary jazz and traditional influences, marked by intricate piano melodies and engaging improvisation.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Try to Catch Me — This track opens the album with a playful energy, featuring a lively exchange between the piano and bass that sets the tone for the entire project.
  • →
    Rehab — A unique interpretation of the familiar tune that showcases Terrasson's skillful improvisation and ability to infuse new life into contemporary classics.
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    Mother — This composition stands out for its emotional depth and intricate harmonies, reflecting Terrasson's personal connection to the theme of motherhood.
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    Happiness — An expansive piece that melds rhythmic complexity with melodic beauty, illustrating Terrasson's mastery of blending genres and creating a joyful atmosphere.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental
60 /100
Treeline
Higher than 66% of albums we've rated

Gouache blends intricate melodies with improvisation, balancing traditional and contemporary jazz elements.

What we noticed

  • Each track varies in tempo and mood, with some pieces maintaining a lively pace while others explore more contemplative themes.
  • Several tracks incorporate traditional jazz elements, such as swing rhythms and call-and-response patterns between instruments.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • engaging improvisation for active listeners
  • playful melodies for cheerful moments
  • sophisticated ambiance for intimate gatherings
  • reflective soundscapes for quiet evenings
  • cascading piano lines that invite

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking high-energy party tracks
  • prefer instant gratification over nuance

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 2012, Gouache is Jacky Terrasson's fourth studio album, following his acclaimed record, Push, from 2009. At this point in his career, Terrasson was solidifying his reputation as a prominent figure in the modern jazz scene, showcasing his ability to blend diverse influences into captivating compositions.
Stylistic neighbors
Brad Mehldau· Chick Corea· Herbie Hancock

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Try to Catch Me 4:06
  • 2 Baby 3:21
  • 3 Je te veux 5:24
  • 4 Rehab 3:55
  • 5 Gouache 4:33
  • 6 Oh My Love 4:47
  • 7 Mother 6:50
  • 8 Happiness 7:42
  • 9 Valse Hot 4:06
  • 10 C’est si bon 6:02

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata