What makes In London by Dewey Redman notable?

In London is significant for its representation of the free jazz movement during a time of artistic innovation. The album received critical acclaim, particularly for Redman's unique approach to improvisation, which influenced many contemporary jazz musicians and solidified his reputation as an important figure in the genre. Released in 1972, In London marked Dewey Redman's first album for the Impulse! label, following his work with the Ornette Coleman Quartet. At this point, Redman was establishing his own voice within the avant-garde jazz scene, moving from sideman to bandleader.

How many songs are on In London?

In London has 8 tracks, running approximately 66 minutes.

In London

Dewey Redman

66 min · 8 tracks · jazz

A vibrant exploration of free jazz, blending intricate rhythms with expansive improvisation and emotive melodies.

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Top tracks — play these first

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I Should Care — This track showcases Redman's lyrical tenor saxophone against a backdrop of spontaneous interaction from the ensemble, highlighting his ability to blend structured melody with freeform expression.
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The Very Thought of You — Here, Redman's interpretation transforms a standard into a canvas for emotional depth and intricate interplay, revealing the musicians' chemistry while maintaining a sense of freedom.
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I-Pimp — This piece exemplifies Redman's adventurous spirit, featuring complex rhythms and bold improvisational choices that push the boundaries of conventional jazz forms.
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Stablemates — Redman's rendition of this classic highlights both technical prowess and emotional articulation, emphasizing his talent for reimagining familiar themes through a free jazz lens.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

66 /100

Alpine

Higher than 89% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong improvisation and unique rhythmic structures, marking Redman's distinct voice in free jazz.

What we noticed

The album features extended improvisational sections where the saxophone and rhythm section engage in call-and-response patterns.
The use of silence and space is prominent, with pauses strategically placed to enhance the emotional impact of the melodies.

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

Influence 3/10

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.

Tracklist

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

1 I Should Care 10:56
2 The Very Thought of You 9:29
3 I-Pimp 10:45
4 Portrait in Black & White 9:17
5 Tu-Inns 7:20
6 Kleerwine 4:14
7 Stablemates 5:23
8 Eleven 8:59

What to play next

Listen next

Red and Black in Willisau

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free jazz

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata