What makes In the Beginning by Woody Shaw notable?

In the Beginning received critical acclaim for its ambitious compositions and unique blend of styles, solidifying Shaw's influence on the jazz genre. The album is noted for its innovative approach to improvisation and structure, which has inspired subsequent generations of jazz musicians. Released in 1983, In the Beginning marked Woody Shaw's return to recording after a five-year hiatus, following his acclaimed albums like Rosewood. This album represents a significant moment in Shaw's career as he sought to explore new musical directions with a fresh ensemble, including members of the emerging jazz scene.

Who is In the Beginning for?

In the Beginning works well if you're into intricate rhythms for attentive listeners, vibrant harmonies inviting exploration and cerebral engagement through complex structures.

How many songs are on In the Beginning?

In the Beginning has 6 tracks, running approximately 42 minutes.

In the Beginning

Woody Shaw · 1983

42 min · 6 tracks · jazz

A vibrant fusion of complex harmonies and intricate rhythms, showcasing the innovative spirit of jazz in the early '80s.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Cassandranite — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its complex time signatures and rich harmonic textures, showcasing Shaw's virtuosic trumpet work.
→
Obsequious — The interplay between the instruments creates an engaging dialogue, highlighting Shaw's compositional skill while also allowing each musician to shine individually.
→
Medina — With its extended length and layered arrangements, this piece exemplifies Shaw’s ability to weave intricate melodies into a cohesive narrative across different sections.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

68 /100

Alpine

Higher than 93% of albums we've rated

The album's intricate compositions and improvisational exchanges highlight its innovative jazz spirit.

What we noticed

Each track showcases extended improvisation sections where soloists frequently exchange phrases, creating a dynamic interplay.
The use of varied instrumentation, including brass and woodwinds alongside traditional jazz rhythm sections, adds layers to the sound.
The final track 'Medina' concludes with a gradual deceleration, allowing for a reflective finish after the energetic preceding pieces.

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

Influence 4/10

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

intricate rhythms for attentive listeners
vibrant harmonies inviting exploration
cerebral engagement through complex structures
evening relaxation with rich textures

Maybe skip if you

seeking instant gratification
prefer straightforward, catchy tunes

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1983, In the Beginning marked Woody Shaw's return to recording after a five-year hiatus, following his acclaimed albums like Rosewood. This album represents a significant moment in Shaw's career as he sought to explore new musical directions with a fresh ensemble, including members of the emerging jazz scene.
Stylistic neighbors: Freddie Hubbard· Arturo Sandoval· Donald Byrd

Tracklist

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

1 Cassandranite 6:49
2 Obsequious 7:44
3 Baloo Baloo 6:04
4 Three Muses 6:26
5 Tetragon 6:41
6 Medina 8:26

What to play next

Listen next

Setting Standards

1984

Go back to

Night Music

1983

Full Woody Shaw discography Artists like Woody Shaw

jazz

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata