What makes Is by Chick Corea notable?

Is is significant for its ambitious length and structure, particularly the title track, which runs for nearly half an hour. The album is often credited with influencing the avant-garde jazz movement and has been praised in various publications for its experimental approach and improvisational depth. Released in 1969, Is was Chick Corea's debut album as a leader after his tenure with Miles Davis. At this point, Corea was transitioning from sideman to a prominent figure in jazz, showcasing his innovative style that would define his career.

How many songs are on Is?

Is has 4 tracks, running approximately 51 minutes.

Is

Chick Corea · 1969

51 min · 4 tracks · jazz

A sprawling exploration of avant-garde jazz, merging intricate melodies with improvisational freedom and rhythmic experimentation.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Is — The title track serves as a centerpiece of the album, featuring extended improvisation that showcases Corea's virtuosic piano skills and inventive harmonic ideas.
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Jamala — This track presents a dynamic interplay between the musicians, highlighting Corea's ability to blend structured composition with spontaneous expression.
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This — In contrast to the lengthy pieces, This offers a brief yet potent encapsulation of Corea's post-bop influences and compositional flair.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Debut album that marked Corea's transition to a prominent jazz figure.
Themes: avant-garde exploration· 1960s jazz innovation· improvisational freedom
Career context: Released in 1969, Is was Chick Corea's debut album as a leader after his tenure with Miles Davis. At this point, Corea was transitioning from sideman to a prominent figure in jazz, showcasing his innovative style that would define his career.
Stylistic neighbors: Herbie Hancock· Keith Jarrett· McCoy Tyner