Is In Memory Of a good place to start with Stanley Turrentine?

Yes, In Memory Of is recommended as a starting point for new Stanley Turrentine listeners. Soulful saxophone melodies intertwine with rhythmic grooves, creating a lush tapestry of jazz that feels both vibrant and introspective. In Memory Of marked Stanley Turrentine's return to the Blue Note label after several years, representing a pivotal moment in his career as he embraced a more soulful sound. Released in 1979, this album followed his successful collaborations in the 1970s and showcased his ability to blend contemporary jazz with elements of funk and soul.

Who is In Memory Of for?

In Memory Of works well if you're into long, reflective listening sessions, warm melodies for relaxation and swaying rhythms for casual gatherings.

How many songs are on In Memory Of?

In Memory Of has 6 tracks, running approximately 40 minutes.

In Memory Of

Stanley Turrentine · 1979

40 min · 6 tracks · jazz

Soulful saxophone melodies intertwine with rhythmic grooves, creating a lush tapestry of jazz that feels both vibrant and introspective.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Fried Pies Start here — The opening track features an infectious groove that sets the tone for the album, showcasing Turrentine's trademark smooth saxophone style intertwined with dynamic rhythms.
→
In Memory Of — The title track serves as a poignant reflection on loss and nostalgia, highlighted by rich harmonies and Turrentine's emotive playing that captivates listeners.
→
Make Someone Happy — This track stands out with its heartfelt melody and expressive phrasing, illustrating Turrentine's ability to infuse emotional depth into familiar standards.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album displays strong melodies and solid craftsmanship, though it doesn't significantly stand out in the jazz genre.

What we noticed

The album features a consistent use of smooth, flowing melodies primarily driven by Turrentine's tenor saxophone.
The arrangements often include subtle backing from piano and rhythm sections, creating a cohesive sound throughout.

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: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

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

long, reflective listening sessions
warm melodies for relaxation
swaying rhythms for casual gatherings
nostalgic moments of joy

Maybe skip if you

prefer fast-paced music
want constant high energy

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Deep Cut — A solid entry in Turrentine's catalog, not a standout for broader recognition.
Themes: nostalgic reflections· soulful saxophone· Blue Note revival
Career context: In Memory Of marked Stanley Turrentine's return to the Blue Note label after several years, representing a pivotal moment in his career as he embraced a more soulful sound. Released in 1979, this album followed his successful collaborations in the 1970s and showcased his ability to blend contemporary jazz with elements of funk and soul.
Stylistic neighbors: Horace Silver· Joe Henderson· Cannonball Adderley