Looking (Berlin Version) Solo
Cecil Taylor · 1990
69 min · 7 tracks · jazz
A sprawling exploration of dissonance and rhythm, blending intricate piano improvisations with avant-garde textures.
Top tracks — play these first
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Section 1 — Spanning over thirty minutes, this track serves as a masterclass in spontaneous composition, revealing Taylor's ability to weave complex melodies through chaotic soundscapes.
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Section 2 — This piece continues the thematic exploration of tension and release, employing contrasting dynamics that showcase Taylor's emotional range and technical prowess.
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Section 4 — At just under four minutes, this section distills the essence of Taylor's style into a concise burst of creativity, highlighting his rhythmic innovation and tonal color.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalThis album exemplifies Taylor's innovative improvisation and unique sound within avant-garde jazz.
What we noticed
- The piano is often accompanied by extended techniques, such as prepared piano sounds and percussive strikes, enhancing the avant-garde texture.
- Composition 25% of the score
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8/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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9/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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7/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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9/10
- 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
- sprawling improvisational explorations
- patient unfolding of sound
- immersive late-night listening
- intense focus on detail
Maybe skip if you
- prefer concise, catchy tracks
- seek immediate gratification
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Upon releasing 'Looking (Berlin Version) Solo' in 1990, Cecil Taylor was already a pioneering figure in avant-garde jazz, known for his innovative techniques and emotive performances. This album followed his extensive career of experimentation, showcasing his unique solo piano style after decades of collaborative work and live performances.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Sun Ra· Ornette Coleman· Anthony Braxton
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Section 1 30:14
- 2 Section 2 27:57
- 3 Section 3 1:22
- 4 Section 4 3:45
- 5 Section 5 2:34
- 6 Section 6 1:43
- 7 Section 7 2:04
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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