What makes Jazz by Ry Cooder notable?

Jazz received positive critical acclaim for its innovative fusion of styles and Cooder's virtuosic guitar work. It helped revitalize interest in traditional jazz and influenced a generation of musicians exploring Americana and roots music. Released in 1978, Jazz marked Ry Cooder's artistic exploration into the roots of American music after his acclaimed film soundtracks. This album followed his successful projects like 'Chavez Ravine' and showcased his ability to blend genres while paying homage to jazz traditions.

Jazz works well if you're into steady, consistent energy levels, long, immersive listening sessions and layered, dense sonic textures.

How many songs are on Jazz?

Jazz has 11 tracks, running approximately 37 minutes.

Jazz

Ry Cooder · 1978

37 min · 11 tracks · blues

A vibrant tapestry of American roots music, blending blues, folk, and jazz with Cooder's signature slide guitar.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Big Bad Bill Is Sweet William Now — This track transforms a classic tune into a playful narrative, showcasing Cooder's ability to reinterpret familiar songs with fresh energy.
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Davenport Blues — An instrumental piece that highlights Cooder's masterful slide guitar technique, embodying the essence of American blues with an emotive yet restrained delivery.
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Face to Face That I Shall Meet Him — This track weaves a gospel-like narrative, blending spiritual themes with Cooder's soulful guitar lines, effectively marrying musical storytelling with rich melodies.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

60 /100

Treeline

Higher than 66% of albums we've rated

Cooder's blend of genres showcases strong musicianship but lacks the depth for lasting impact.

What we noticed

Several tracks incorporate traditional jazz elements, such as syncopated rhythms and improvisational sections.
The sequencing alternates between slower ballads and more upbeat numbers, creating a dynamic flow throughout the record.

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

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, consistent energy levels
long, immersive listening sessions
layered, dense sonic textures
contemplative reflective moods

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1978, Jazz marked Ry Cooder's artistic exploration into the roots of American music after his acclaimed film soundtracks. This album followed his successful projects like 'Chavez Ravine' and showcased his ability to blend genres while paying homage to jazz traditions.
Stylistic neighbors: Leonard Cohen· John Prine· David Lindley