Layers
Les McCann · 1973
44 min · 11 tracks · jazz
A vibrant tapestry of jazz-infused rhythms and soulful melodies that evoke deep emotional resonance and communal celebration.
Top tracks — play these first
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Sometimes I Cry Start here — This opening track sets the emotional tone for the album with its poignant lyrics and soulful delivery, encapsulating McCann's unique ability to blend jazz improvisation with heartfelt storytelling.
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Soaring (At Dawn) Part I — With its expansive arrangement and intricate piano work, this track showcases McCann’s talent for creating atmospheric soundscapes that invite listeners into a reflective journey.
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The Harlem Buck Dance Strut — This lively piece captures the energy of community celebration through its infectious rhythm and joyful instrumentation, illustrating McCann's roots in both jazz and African American culture.
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It Never Stopped in My Home Town — This track vividly reflects on personal and communal history, using narrative lyrics that connect listeners to their own experiences while merging smooth melodies with deeper social commentary.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- short reflective interludes for contemplation
- uplifting moments of joyful release
- patient builds leading to resolution
- varied pacing for dynamic listening
Maybe skip if you
- prefer fast-paced, energetic tracks
- want straightforward, predictable song structures
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Critical Peak — Represents a significant artistic development in McCann's career.
- Themes
- Harlem celebration· communal history· soulful storytelling
- Career context
- Released in 1973, Layers marked Les McCann's return to the studio after a successful run in the late 1960s and early 70s, highlighted by his hit album, Compared to What. This album showcases his evolution as an artist, blending jazz with elements of soul and rhythm and blues during a time when he was seeking new artistic expressions.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Ramsey Lewis· Horace Silver· Joe Sample
Tracklist
- 1 Sometimes I Cry Start here 5:21
- 2 Let's Gather 1:13
- 3 Anticipation 0:52
- 4 The Dunbar High School Marching Band 6:06
- 5 Soaring (At Dawn) Part I 5:56
- 6 The Harlem Buck Dance Strut 5:55
- 7 Interlude 0:35
- 8 Before I Rest 3:41
- 9 Let's Play ('til Mom Calls) 4:27
- 10 It Never Stopped in My Home Town 1:54
- 11 Soaring (At Sunset) Part II 8:02
If this landed
Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.
Head Hunters
Herbie Hancock
Combines jazz with funk grooves and soulful melodies, creating a vibrant communal atmosphere.
Pieces of a Man
Gil Scott-Heron
Merges jazz, soul, and poetic storytelling, reflecting on community and shared experiences.
Virgo Vibes
Roy Ayers
Features rhythmic jazz-infused grooves and soulful vibes that celebrate life and togetherness.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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