What makes It's Time! by Jackie McLean notable?

It's Time! received critical acclaim and is noted for its innovative compositions that pushed the boundaries of traditional jazz. The album features tracks that have become staples in the jazz repertoire, influencing both contemporaries and future generations of musicians. It also reflects McLean's role in the avant-garde movement, helping to shape the evolution of jazz during the mid-1960s. Released in 1965, It's Time! marked Jackie McLean's transition into a more experimental phase following the success of his earlier works. At this point, he was already an established figure in the jazz scene, having built a reputation through collaborations with legends like Charles Mingus and Art Blakey. This album further solidified his unique voice within the hard bop genre as he began exploring post-bop elements.

Who is It's Time! for?

It's Time! works well if you're into steady, consistent energy levels, long, immersive listening sessions and dynamic emotional journeys.

How many songs are on It's Time!?

It's Time! has 6 tracks, running approximately 43 minutes.

It's Time!

Jackie McLean · 1965

43 min · 6 tracks · jazz

A vibrant blend of hard bop and intricate melodies, showcasing McLean's bold saxophone style amid dynamic ensemble interplay.

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Top tracks — play these first

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It’s Time — The title track encapsulates McLean's urgent improvisational style, featuring intricate harmonies and a captivating dialogue between instruments that highlight his innovative approach.
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Truth — This track stands out with its complex rhythmic structure and lyrical saxophone lines, showcasing McLean's ability to balance technicality with emotional depth.
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Das’ Dat — With its catchy motif and swinging groove, this piece exemplifies the album's energetic spirit while allowing McLean's melodic inventiveness to shine through.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

60 /100

Treeline

Higher than 66% of albums we've rated

McLean's innovative compositions and bold saxophone work define this album's strong jazz identity.

What we noticed

Each track showcases McLean's bold saxophone style, frequently engaging in call-and-response with the ensemble.
The final track, 'Truth', employs a slower tempo and extended improvisation, contrasting with the more upbeat preceding pieces.

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: 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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady, consistent energy levels
long, immersive listening sessions
dynamic emotional journeys
contemplative late-night vibes

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1965, It's Time! marked Jackie McLean's transition into a more experimental phase following the success of his earlier works. At this point, he was already an established figure in the jazz scene, having built a reputation through collaborations with legends like Charles Mingus and Art Blakey. This album further solidified his unique voice within the hard bop genre as he began exploring post-bop elements.
Stylistic neighbors: Eric Dolphy· Cannonball Adderley· Sonny Rollins