What makes It's About Time by McCoy Tyner notable?

It's About Time received critical acclaim for its innovative blend of styles and outstanding musicianship, highlighting Tyner's role as a pioneer in jazz. The album is notable for featuring prominent musicians such as Jackie McLean, contributing to its rich harmonic complexity. It has been recognized within the genre for its influence on subsequent jazz artists and remains a significant entry in Tyner's discography. Released in 1985, It's About Time marked McCoy Tyner's return to the forefront of jazz after a period of exploration in various musical avenues. Following his tenure with the legendary John Coltrane quartet, Tyner was solidifying his solo career and pushing boundaries with his unique sound. This album showcases his evolution as a composer and pianist during a dynamic phase of artistic expression.

Who is It's About Time for?

It's About Time works well if you're into steady mid-tempo exploration, ethereal melodies for reflection and consistent journey through sound.

How many songs are on It's About Time?

It's About Time has 6 tracks, running approximately 37 minutes.

It's About Time

McCoy Tyner · 1985

37 min · 6 tracks · jazz

A vibrant fusion of post-bop and ethno jazz, layered with intricate piano melodies and rich ensemble textures.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Spur of the Moment — This track captures the spontaneous energy and improvisational spirit that defines Tyner's artistry, showcasing his virtuosic piano work alongside dynamic ensemble playing.
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You Taught My Heart to Sing — A standout piece that combines lyrical melody with complex harmonies, illustrating Tyner's ability to convey emotion through intricate musical structures.
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It's About Time — The title track serves as an impressive statement of Tyner's musical philosophy, blending rhythmic complexity with bold melodic lines that invite deep listening.

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 blends intricate melodies with diverse textures, though its cohesion is somewhat uneven.

What we noticed

The album opens with a fast-paced track that features intricate piano lines layered over a dynamic rhythm section, setting an energetic tone.
Each track showcases a different ensemble texture, with varying instrumentation that includes horns and percussion, creating a rich sonic landscape.
The last two tracks slow down significantly, allowing for more introspective melodies and extended improvisation sections.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

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

steady mid-tempo exploration
ethereal melodies for reflection
consistent journey through sound
warm background for conversation

Maybe skip if you

prefer fast-paced tracks
seek standalone singles

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1985, It's About Time marked McCoy Tyner's return to the forefront of jazz after a period of exploration in various musical avenues. Following his tenure with the legendary John Coltrane quartet, Tyner was solidifying his solo career and pushing boundaries with his unique sound. This album showcases his evolution as a composer and pianist during a dynamic phase of artistic expression.
Stylistic neighbors: Chick Corea· Herbie Hancock· Keith Jarrett