Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental
63 /100
Treeline
Higher than 74% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong improvisation and modal exploration, creating a cohesive yet dynamic listening experience.

What we noticed

  • The album features a consistent use of modal jazz structures, with each track exploring different harmonic landscapes.
  • McLean's alto saxophone leads with a fluid, improvisational style, often accompanied by intricate piano and bass lines that respond dynamically.
  • The tracks vary in tempo but maintain a cohesive atmosphere, with several pieces transitioning smoothly into one another without breaks.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
8/10

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.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 On the Nile 12:31
  • 2 Climax 9:18
  • 3 Soft Blue 7:28
  • 4 Jacknife 6:14
  • 5 Blue Fable 5:56

Reference: MusicBrainz