Ivory Pyramid cover

Ivory Pyramid

Ramsey Lewis

47 min · 10 tracks · jazz

A vibrant fusion of jazz, funk, and pop rhythms that invites listeners to dance while exploring rich melodic landscapes.

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Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Brazilica Start here — This track opens the album with an infectious energy that combines Latin rhythms with jazz improvisation, setting the tone for the eclectic sounds that follow.
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    People Make The World Go ’Round — A reimagining of the classic song, this rendition showcases Lewis's ability to blend soulful melodies with engaging instrumentation, resonating well with audiences.
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    Ivory Pyramid — The title track serves as a centerpiece for the album, featuring intricate piano lines and a lush arrangement that highlights Lewis's virtuosic skills.
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    Tequila Mockingbird — With its catchy hook and playful rhythm, this track exemplifies Lewis's knack for creating memorable compositions that bridge jazz and popular music.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental
46 /100
Foothills
Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

The album presents solid compositions with engaging performances but lacks standout moments that elevate it.

What we noticed

  • Several tracks incorporate Latin influences, particularly in their percussion and harmonic structures.
  • The track 'Tequila Mockingbird' showcases a playful interaction between piano and horns, creating a lively dialogue.
  • The final track, 'Jackson Park', concludes with a gradual fade-out, leaving a lingering sense of resolution.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
5/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. 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 groove for afternoon relaxation
  • inviting melodies for social gatherings
  • warm soundscapes for easy listening
  • uplifting vibes for sunny days

Maybe skip if you

  • seekers of high-energy tempos
  • fans of abrupt track shifts

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — Established Ramsey Lewis's reputation in jazz fusion, marking a significant label transition.
Themes
Brazilian rhythms· 1980s jazz fusion· danceable melodies
Career context
Released in 1985, Ivory Pyramid was Ramsey Lewis's first album on the GRP label after a successful career spanning over two decades. At this point, he had transitioned from traditional jazz to incorporate more contemporary elements such as funk and pop influences, showcasing his adaptability in a changing musical landscape.
Stylistic neighbors
Herbie Hancock· Chick Corea· George Benson
New to Ramsey Lewis? Find your way in →

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • People Make The World Go ’Round

    The moment shifts from uplifting verses to a powerful chorus that emphasizes unity and community.

    This shift elevates the song’s message, transforming individual sentiments into a collective call for connection.

Tracklist

  • 1 Brazilica Start here 5:08
  • 2 People Make The World Go ’Round 5:27
  • 3 Ivory Pyramid 4:30
  • 4 Sarah Jane 4:31
  • 5 Tequila Mockingbird 4:44
  • 6 A Night in Bahia 5:19
  • 7 Malachi (The Messenger) 4:13
  • 8 Pavanne 4:24
  • 9 Love’s Gotta Hold 4:31
  • 10 Jackson Park 4:47

What to play next

Sun Goddess
Listen next

Sun Goddess

1974

Continues the vibrant fusion of jazz and funk with engaging grooves.
The Groover
Go back to

The Groover

Sets the stage with similar rhythmic energy and melodic exploration.
Full Ramsey Lewis discography Where to start with Ramsey Lewis Artists like Ramsey Lewis
jazz fusion jazz-funk

If this landed

Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.

Light as a Feather

Light as a Feather

Chick Corea

Shares vibrant melodies and intricate rhythms, blending jazz with Latin influences reminiscent of the 80s fusion vibe.

Future Shock

Future Shock

Herbie Hancock

Explores funk and electronic textures with an infectious danceability that aligns with the spirit of Ivory Pyramid.

Breezin'

Breezin'

George Benson

Combines smooth jazz and pop sensibilities, echoing the melodic richness and rhythmic grooves of Lewis's work.

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata