What makes Gula Matari by Quincy Jones notable?

Gula Matari is significant as it reflects Quincy Jones' ambition to push the boundaries of jazz by incorporating elements of world music and funk. The album received critical acclaim, solidifying Jones' reputation as a pioneer in blending genres, and has influenced numerous artists across different musical landscapes. Released in 1970, Gula Matari was Quincy Jones' first album after his commercial breakthrough with the soundtrack for The Italian Job. At this point, he was transitioning from a successful producer to a renowned solo artist, further establishing his diverse musical identity that combined various genres.

How many songs are on Gula Matari?

Gula Matari has 4 tracks, running approximately 34 minutes.

Gula Matari

Quincy Jones · 1970

34 min · 4 tracks · funk

Eclectic jazz fusion intertwines bossa nova rhythms with soulful melodies, showcasing Quincy Jones' innovative orchestration and expansive vision.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Gula Matari — The title track features an ambitious structure that fuses intricate rhythms and lush arrangements, representing the album's adventurous spirit and Jones' compositional prowess.
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Bridge Over Troubled Water — This cover showcases Jones' ability to reinterpret classic songs with a fresh jazz-infused approach, highlighting emotional depth through rich instrumentation.
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Hummin' — With its laid-back groove and melodic hooks, this track exemplifies the seamless blend of soul and jazz that characterizes much of Jones' work.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The album showcases diverse styles and strong arrangements, though its cohesion is somewhat uneven.

What we noticed

The album opens with a cover of 'Bridge Over Troubled Water', which features lush orchestration and a prominent horn section that sets a rich sonic palette.
Each track varies in tempo and style, with 'Gula Matari' incorporating bossa nova rhythms while 'Walkin'' leans more into funk grooves.

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: 5/10

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.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — First album post-commercial success, establishing his innovative approach in jazz.
Themes: bossa nova fusion· 1970s jazz evolution· soulful reinterpretation
Career context: Released in 1970, Gula Matari was Quincy Jones' first album after his commercial breakthrough with the soundtrack for The Italian Job. At this point, he was transitioning from a successful producer to a renowned solo artist, further establishing his diverse musical identity that combined various genres.
Stylistic neighbors: Herbie Hancock· Stevie Wonder· George Benson