What makes Here Is Phineas by Phineas Newborn Jr. notable?

The album received critical acclaim for its inventive arrangements and technical prowess, helping to elevate Newborn's status within the jazz community. It is often noted for its influence on subsequent jazz pianists and has been recognized by publications like DownBeat, which highlighted its artistry during a pivotal moment for jazz in the late 1950s. Released in 1957, Here Is Phineas marked Phineas Newborn Jr.'s debut album, introducing his virtuosic piano skills to the world. At this point in his career, Newborn was transitioning from a supportive role in jazz ensembles to becoming a prominent solo artist, establishing himself as a significant figure in modern jazz.

Who is Here Is Phineas for?

Here Is Phineas works well if you're into intricate piano explorations unfold, wave-like pacing with peaks and afternoon relaxation and reflection.

How many songs are on Here Is Phineas?

Here Is Phineas has 8 tracks, running approximately 36 minutes.

Here Is Phineas

Phineas Newborn Jr. · 1957

36 min · 8 tracks · jazz

A vibrant showcase of intricate piano work paired with lush arrangements, embodying the essence of jazz's golden era.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Barbados — This opening track showcases Newborn's dazzling technique and rhythmic complexity, setting the tone for the album while incorporating Caribbean influences.
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All the Things You Are — Newborn's interpretation of this standard highlights his sophisticated harmonic understanding and lyrical playing style, making it a standout performance.
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I'm Beginning to See the Light — This track features an engaging interplay between the piano and the ensemble, illustrating Newborn's ability to blend technical skill with emotional depth.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

67 /100

Alpine

Higher than 91% of albums we've rated

Phineas Newborn Jr.'s debut displays impressive piano work and arrangements, marking a strong entry in jazz.

What we noticed

The album features intricate piano solos that often intertwine with lush orchestral arrangements, creating a rich texture throughout.
Each track showcases a different tempo and mood, with several pieces transitioning smoothly from upbeat sections to more reflective passages.
The use of syncopation and complex chord progressions is prominent, highlighting Newborn's technical prowess and improvisational skills.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 7/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 6/10

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

intricate piano explorations unfold
wave-like pacing with peaks
afternoon relaxation and reflection
engaging melodies for focus

Maybe skip if you

seeking fast-paced excitement
prefer straightforward single tracks

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1957, Here Is Phineas marked Phineas Newborn Jr.'s debut album, introducing his virtuosic piano skills to the world. At this point in his career, Newborn was transitioning from a supportive role in jazz ensembles to becoming a prominent solo artist, establishing himself as a significant figure in modern jazz.
Stylistic neighbors: McCoy Tyner· Chick Corea· Herbie Hancock

Tracklist

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

1 Barbados 4:00
2 All the Things You Are 7:22
3 The More I See You 3:59
4 Celia 3:05
5 Dahoud 3:32
6 Newport Blues 4:31
7 I'm Beginning to See the Light 3:03
8 Afternoon in Paris 6:46

What to play next

Listen next

Plays Harold Arlen's Music From Jamaica

1957

Go back to

While My Lady Sleeps

1957

Full Phineas Newborn Jr. discography Artists like Phineas Newborn Jr.

jazz

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata