Improvised Meditations and Excursions
John Lewis · 1959
36 min · 7 tracks · hard bop
A contemplative blend of hard bop's rhythmic complexity with serene improvisational passages that evoke introspection.
Why this album works
This album is significant for its innovative approach to jazz improvisation, showcasing Lewis's compositional skills outside the confines of traditional ensembles. It received positive critical reception for its artistic depth, influencing later generations of jazz musicians seeking to combine structured compositions with spontaneous creativity.
- Best for
- steady rhythmic contemplative journey introspective moments of serenity thoughtful background for reflection
- Context
- Released in 1959, 'Improvised Meditations and Excursions' marked John Lewis's transition into a solo artist after his tenure with the Modern Jazz Quartet. This album followed the Modern Jazz Quartet's successful run, allowing Lewis to explore more personal expressions of jazz and improvisation.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Cannonball Adderley· Herbie Hancock· Miles Davis
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Now's the Time Standout 3:46
- 2 Smoke Gets in Your Eyes 4:50
- 3 Delaunay's Delemma Standout 4:24
- 4 Love Me 5:02
- 5 Yesterdays 6:19
- 6 How Long Has This Been Going On 5:48
- 7 September Song Standout 6:08
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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