Invocations/The Moth and the Flame cover

Invocations/The Moth and the Flame

Keith Jarrett · 1980

82 min · 12 tracks · jazz

A transcendent blend of free improvisation and structured themes, creating an immersive soundscape that invites deep introspection.

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Top tracks — play these first

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    First (Solo Voice) Start here — This opening track epitomizes the album's meditative quality, with Jarrett's solo piano weaving intricate melodies that set the tone for the entire work.
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    The Moth and the Flame, Part I — Part I of this multi-part suite introduces complex harmonic structures and rhythmic patterns, showcasing Jarrett's improvisational prowess over an expansive canvas.
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    Fourth (Shock, Scatter) — This track stands out for its dynamic shifts and emotional intensity, capturing the essence of Jarrett's ability to convey deep feelings through spontaneous improvisation.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • deep introspection during quiet moments
  • wave-like pacing encourages reflection
  • dynamic exploration of emotional themes
  • meditative background for focused tasks
  • gradual resolution through piano melodies

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking immediate gratification
  • prefer short, standalone tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Experimental — Represents a departure into new age and improvisation, blending structured themes with free form.
Themes
spiritual exploration· meditative soundscapes· improvisational transcendence
Career context
By 1980, Keith Jarrett was establishing himself as a leading figure in jazz, following the commercial success of his 1975 album 'The Köln Concert.' 'Invocations/The Moth and the Flame' represents a significant point in his career as it showcases his exploration of spiritual and meditative music, moving away from traditional jazz forms into more experimental realms.
Stylistic neighbors
Chick Corea· Brad Mehldau· Bill Evans
New to Keith Jarrett? Find your way in →

Tracklist

Disc 1

  • 1 First (Solo Voice) Start here 5:25
  • 2 Second (Mirages, Realities) 9:03
  • 3 Third (Power, Resolve) 7:36
  • 4 Fourth (Shock, Scatter) 6:53
  • 5 Fifth (Recognition) 5:08
  • 6 Sixth (Celebration) 5:37
  • 7 Seventh (Solo Voice) 3:04

Disc 2

  • 1 The Moth and the Flame, Part I 7:10
  • 2 The Moth and the Flame, Part II 5:46
  • 3 The Moth and the Flame, Part III 8:32
  • 4 The Moth and the Flame, Part IV 8:17
  • 5 The Moth and the Flame, Part V 9:41

What to play next

Ritual
Listen next

Ritual

1982

Continues the immersive soundscapes and thematic depth found in the current album.
The Celestial Hawk
Go back to

The Celestial Hawk

1980

Precedes with a similar blend of structured themes and improvisation.
Full Keith Jarrett discography Where to start with Keith Jarrett Artists like Keith Jarrett
jazz

If this landed

Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.

Alpha Centauri

Alpha Centauri

Tangerine Dream

Shares a similar sense of immersive soundscapes and spiritual exploration through experimental music.

A Love Supreme

A Love Supreme

John Coltrane

Both albums delve into themes of spirituality and transcendence through structured improvisation.

Ambient 1: Music for Airports

Ambient 1: Music for Airports

Brian Eno

Creates meditative atmospheres with a focus on sonic textures, paralleling the introspective nature of Jarrett's work.

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata