Top tracks — play these first
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Love Is the Tide — This track features an expansive composition that showcases Locke's ability to weave complex melodies with rich emotional undertones, making it a centerpiece of the album.
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Love Is a Planchette — The interplay between instruments on this track exemplifies Locke's collaborative spirit, highlighting the synergy between him and his bandmates while delving into themes of connection.
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For Jesse Mountain — This piece stands out for its reflective quality, with poignant solos that evoke a sense of nostalgia and personal tribute, enhancing the album's emotional landscape.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalThe album showcases strong compositions and skilled performances but remains within familiar jazz territory.
What we noticed
- The album features a consistent use of vibraphone as the lead instrument, with intricate interplay between the vibraphonist and the rhythm section.
- The final track gradually fades out, leaving a lingering resonance that contrasts with the more dynamic earlier pieces.
- 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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6/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Little footprint beyond its audience. 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
- introspective explorations of love
- patient unfolding of themes
- immersive late-night listening experience
- thoughtful harmonies for reflection
Maybe skip if you
- seeking quick, catchy tracks
- prefer upbeat, energetic sessions
Where this album fits
- Career context
- At the time of its release in 2015, Joe Locke was an established figure in the jazz scene, known for his work as a vibraphonist. 'Love Is a Pendulum' marked a continuation of his explorations following the critically acclaimed 'Wish Upon a Star' from 2013, showcasing his artistic maturity and evolving sound.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Stefon Harris· Gary Burton· Chick Corea
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Variation on Wisdom 2:08
- 2 Love Is the Tide 11:37
- 3 Love Is a Planchette 7:54
- 4 Love Is a Pendulum 8:44
- 5 Love Is Letting Go 4:52
- 6 Love Is Perpetual Motion 10:37
- 7 For Jesse Mountain 5:45
- 8 Last Ditch Wisdom 6:43
- 9 Embrace 7:44
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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