What makes In Pursuit of Magic by Roscoe Mitchell notable?

'In Pursuit of Magic' received critical acclaim for its innovative approach to jazz composition and improvisation, reinforcing Mitchell's status in the jazz community. The album is notable for its extensive duration tracks that push traditional boundaries, demonstrating how modern jazz can evolve while remaining rooted in its complex heritage. By the time 'In Pursuit of Magic' was released in 2014, Roscoe Mitchell had established himself as a pioneering figure in avant-garde jazz. This album followed his influential career marked by significant contributions to the AACM (Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians) and showcased his continued evolution as both a composer and performer in the genre.

How many songs are on In Pursuit of Magic?

In Pursuit of Magic has 2 tracks, running approximately 46 minutes.

In Pursuit of Magic

Roscoe Mitchell · 2014

46 min · 2 tracks · jazz

A sprawling exploration of jazz textures, merging improvisational freedom with intricate compositional structures over extended pieces.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Constellations Over Denmark — This track features expansive improvisational sections that highlight Mitchell's mastery of texture and space, making it a centerpiece of the album.
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Light Can Bend — This piece showcases a dynamic interplay between rhythm and melody, exemplifying Mitchell's ability to blend structured composition with free-form expression.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

73 /100

Alpine

Higher than 96% of albums we've rated

The album showcases intricate compositions and improvisation, making it a distinctive entry in avant-garde jazz.

What we noticed

Each track features extended improvisational sections that allow for spontaneous interaction among musicians.
The album consists of two lengthy pieces, with 'Constellations Over Denmark' exceeding 20 minutes, creating a deep exploration of themes.
The instrumentation varies throughout the tracks, incorporating unconventional sounds and techniques that challenge traditional jazz norms.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 8/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 9/10
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 Constellations Over Denmark 21:03
2 Light Can Bend 24:59

What to play next

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Conversations I

2014

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Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata