Is LD + 3 a good place to start with Lou Donaldson?

Yes, LD + 3 is recommended as a starting point for new Lou Donaldson listeners. A vibrant blend of bebop intricacies and soulful grooves that captures the essence of late 1950s jazz. By the time 'LD + 3' was released in October 1959, Lou Donaldson had already established himself in the jazz scene with his previous recordings. This album followed his notable work 'A Night at Birdland Vol. 1' and showcased his unique approach to soul jazz, further solidifying his position as a prominent figure in the genre.

LD + 3 works well if you're into steady grooves for relaxed moments, melodic sophistication for intimate gatherings and gradual peaks for engaging listening.

How many songs are on LD + 3?

LD + 3 has 7 tracks, running approximately 38 minutes.

Released 67 years ago this October

LD + 3

Lou Donaldson · 1959

38 min · 7 tracks · jazz

A vibrant blend of bebop intricacies and soulful grooves that captures the essence of late 1950s jazz.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Blue Moon Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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Smooth Groove — This track exemplifies Donaldson's ability to fuse rhythmic complexity with melodic accessibility, making it a standout piece on the album.
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Confirmation — With its intricate harmonies and engaging improvisations, this track showcases Donaldson's mastery of bebop while maintaining a soulful feel.
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Just Friends — This rendition transforms the classic ballad into a lively exploration of melody and rhythm, highlighting Donaldson’s expressive saxophone style.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album blends intricate bebop with soulful grooves, showcasing strong compositions and skilled performances.

What we noticed

The album opens with a slow, melodic interpretation of 'Blue Moon', setting a reflective tone that contrasts with the more upbeat tracks that follow.
Each track features extended solos, allowing for improvisation that showcases the musicians' technical skills and emotional expression.
The final track, 'Confirmation', ramps up the tempo and energy, creating a dynamic conclusion that leaves a lasting impression.

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: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

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 grooves for relaxed moments
melodic sophistication for intimate gatherings
gradual peaks for engaging listening
background for socializing

Maybe skip if you

prefer instant gratification tracks
seek high-energy dance beats

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This album helped elevate Donaldson's status in the jazz community.
Themes: late 1950s jazz scene· smooth saxophone melodies· soulful improvisation
Career context: By the time 'LD + 3' was released in October 1959, Lou Donaldson had already established himself in the jazz scene with his previous recordings. This album followed his notable work 'A Night at Birdland Vol. 1' and showcased his unique approach to soul jazz, further solidifying his position as a prominent figure in the genre.
Stylistic neighbors: Horace Silver· Cannonball Adderley· Stan Getz