Laid Black
Marcus Miller · 2018
54 min · 9 tracks · funk
A vibrant fusion of funk and jazz, rich with groove and intricate musicianship that invites both movement and contemplation.
Top tracks — play these first
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Trip Trap — The opening track introduces the album's playful yet sophisticated sound, setting a tone that blends rhythmic complexity with melodic hooks.
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Que Sera Sera — This reinterpretation of a classic showcases Miller's ability to merge traditional melodies with modern grooves, reflecting his unique artistic vision.
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No Limit — With its infectious rhythm and captivating bass lines, this track exemplifies Miller's signature style while inviting listeners into an immersive musical journey.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album blends intricate grooves with strong musicianship, though its impact remains within the jazz and funk scenes.
What we noticed
- The album opens with a strong groove in 'Trip Trap', establishing a rhythmic foundation that persists throughout.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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
- consistent rhythmic journey throughout
- smooth grooves for relaxed vibes
- intricate instrumentation detail hunting
- uplifting energy for social gatherings
- steady pacing for focused listening
Maybe skip if you
- seeking instant gratification tracks
- prefer standalone singles only
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in January 2018, Laid Black is Marcus Miller's follow-up to his 2015 album Afrodeezia. At this point in his career, Miller was solidifying his legacy as a master bassist and producer, blending genres while exploring personal themes through his work.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Victor Wooten· Stanley Clarke· Herbie Hancock
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Someone to Love
The narrative shifts from introspection to direct address as the singer reaches out for connection, breaking the fourth wall in a poignant way.
This direct engagement adds an emotional depth that contrasts with the earlier reflective verses, marking a significant structural turn in the song.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Trip Trap 6:59
- 2 Que Sera Sera 6:05
- 3 7-T's 5:57
- 4 Sublimity ‘Bunny’s Dream’ 6:44
- 5 Untamed 4:48
- 6 No Limit 5:38
- 7 Someone to Love 4:42
- 8 Keep 'Em Runnin 5:20
- 9 Preacher's Kid 7:43
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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