Kenton's West Side Story cover

Kenton's West Side Story

Stan Kenton · 1961

39 min · 10 tracks · jazz · swing · progressive jazz

Orchestral jazz harmonies intertwine with vibrant rhythms, breathing new life into Leonard Bernstein's classic arrangements.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • orchestral arrangements with vibrant rhythms
  • steady pacing for focused listening
  • narrative progression throughout experience
  • theatrical energy in each track

Maybe skip if you want

  • prefer instant gratification tracks
  • dislike orchestral instrumental elements

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 1961, 'Kenton's West Side Story' marked a pivotal moment in Stan Kenton's career as he pushed the boundaries of orchestral jazz. This album came after his acclaimed works in the late 1950s and showcased his ambitious adaptation of Broadway music to a big band format.
Stylistic neighbors
Buddy Rich· Maynard Ferguson· Bill Holman

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Prologue 4:05
  • 2 Something’s Coming 3:39
  • 3 Maria 4:29
  • 4 America 4:41
  • 5 Tonight 3:46
  • 6 Cool 4:28
  • 7 I Feel Pretty 3:53
  • 8 Officer Krupke 3:02
  • 9 Taunting Scene (The Rumble) 3:56
  • 10 Somewhere (Finale) 3:14

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata