What makes Jazz ...It's Magic! by Curtis Fuller notable?

This album is significant for its representation of the hard bop movement, influencing subsequent generations of jazz musicians. It received critical acclaim upon release, with notable mentions in publications like DownBeat, enhancing Fuller's standing within the jazz community. Released in 1957, Jazz ...It's Magic! came during Curtis Fuller’s rise as a prominent figure in the jazz scene, following his contributions to iconic albums like A Night at Birdland. This album solidified his reputation as one of the leading trombonists of the era, showcasing his technical prowess and artistic vision.

Who is Jazz ...It's Magic! for?

Jazz ...It's Magic! works well if you're into gradual build with vibrant energy, intricate brass harmonies throughout and sustained sections for deep listening.

How many songs are on Jazz ...It's Magic!?

Jazz ...It's Magic! has 5 tracks, running approximately 40 minutes.

Jazz ...It's Magic!

Curtis Fuller · 1957

40 min · 5 tracks · jazz

A vibrant blend of hard-bop and melodic improvisation, showcasing Fuller’s rich trombone tones amid dynamic ensemble interplay.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Medley: It's Magic / My One And Only Love / They Didn't Believe Me — This medley seamlessly intertwines three classic standards, allowing Fuller to demonstrate his lyrical phrasing and emotional depth through elaborate improvisations.
→
Soul Station — Fuller’s interpretation of this piece showcases a deep groove and intricate melodic lines that capture the essence of soulful jazz.
→
Club Car — The track features a playful exchange between instruments, highlighting Fuller's ability to navigate complex rhythms while maintaining a laid-back atmosphere.

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 compositions and skilled performances within the hard bop style, making it a notable entry in jazz history.

What we noticed

The album features a consistent use of call-and-response between the trombone and the ensemble, creating a dynamic interplay throughout.
The arrangements often include extended solos that allow for improvisation, particularly highlighting Fuller's trombone work in 'Soul Station' and 'Upper Berth'.

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

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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

gradual build with vibrant energy
intricate brass harmonies throughout
sustained sections for deep listening
immersive medleys that captivate attention

Maybe skip if you

prefer instant gratification tracks
avoid complex rhythmic structures

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1957, Jazz ...It's Magic! came during Curtis Fuller’s rise as a prominent figure in the jazz scene, following his contributions to iconic albums like A Night at Birdland. This album solidified his reputation as one of the leading trombonists of the era, showcasing his technical prowess and artistic vision.
Stylistic neighbors: Art Blakey· Horace Silver· Wayne Shorter