Live Art
122 min · 21 tracks · bluegrass music
A vibrant fusion of bluegrass, funk, and improvisation that showcases Flecktones' virtuosity and playful experimentation.
Top tracks — play these first
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The Sinister Minister — This track exudes infectious energy with its intricate melodies and lively rhythms, demonstrating the band's ability to merge traditional bluegrass elements with contemporary flair.
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Flight of the Cosmic Hippo — As an iconic piece from their earlier work, this track blends humor and virtuosic musicianship, encapsulating the playful essence that defines the Flecktones’ identity.
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Bigfoot — The extended improvisation in this track allows each member to shine individually while contributing to a cohesive musical journey that showcases their collective talent.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album showcases strong improvisation and genre fusion, reflecting the band's unique style.
What we noticed
- Several tracks blend genres seamlessly, such as the fusion of bluegrass and funk in 'UFO Tofu' and 'Flying Saucer Dudes'.
- The running time is extensive with 21 tracks, including interludes that create a dynamic flow and maintain audience engagement throughout the performance.
- 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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7/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- 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
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
- playful improvisation with surprises
- dynamic journey through varied peaks
- engaging live energy and spontaneity
- for adventurous listening
- ideal for extended jam sessions
Maybe skip if you
- prefer straightforward, short tracks
- seeking instant gratification
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in 1996, 'Live Art' captures Béla Fleck and the Flecktones at a pivotal moment following their Grammy Award-winning album 'Flight of the Cosmic Hippo.' This live recording highlights their dynamic stage presence and musical chemistry, solidifying their status as innovators in blending diverse genres into a cohesive sound.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Punch Brothers· Nickel Creek· Greensky Bluegrass
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
Disc 1
- 1 Intro 0:39
- 2 New South Africa 4:43
- 3 Stomping Grounds 5:26
- 4 Lochs of Dread 5:45
- 5 Bigfoot 7:32
- 6 Far East Medley 7:21
- 7 Flying Saucer Dudes 5:35
- 8 UFO Tofu 3:38
- 9 Interlude: Libation, the Water Ritual 3:06
- 10 Vix 9 6:02
- 11 The Message 9:16
Disc 2
- 1 Improv / Amazing Grace 6:46
- 2 Shubbee's Doobie 4:40
- 3 Oh! Darling 6:21
- 4 Blu-Bop 7:36
- 5 Sunset Road 5:56
- 6 More Luv 7:43
- 7 Early Reflection / Bach / The Ballad of Jed Clampett 6:09
- 8 Cheeseballs in Cowtown 5:38
- 9 The Sinister Minister 7:30
- 10 Flight of the Cosmic Hippo 4:54
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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