What makes Madison Time by Ray Bryant notable?

Madison Time became notable for its influence on the dance craze of the early 1960s, particularly popularizing the Madison dance style. The album's title track reached significant chart success, contributing to Bryant's reputation as an innovative force in jazz music during this era. Released in 1960, Madison Time marked Ray Bryant's transition into a more commercially appealing sound after his earlier works. At this point, he was establishing himself as a prominent pianist and bandleader in the jazz scene, following his success with previous albums like 'The Ray Bryant Combo'.

Who is Madison Time for?

Madison Time works well if you're into infectious grooves for dancing, steady rhythm for social gatherings and engaging sway-inducing energy.

How many songs are on Madison Time?

Madison Time has 9 tracks, running approximately 36 minutes.

Madison Time

Ray Bryant · 1960

36 min · 9 tracks · jazz

Joyful and infectious jazz rhythms intertwine with lively melodies, creating a celebratory dance atmosphere throughout the album.

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Top tracks — play these first

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The Madison Time - Part I — This track serves as the vibrant centerpiece of the album, encapsulating the energetic spirit of the Madison dance phenomenon. Its catchy melody and driving rhythm invite listeners to engage and participate.
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Centerpiece — As a jazz standard, this track showcases Bryant's impressive piano skills while blending intricate harmonies and rhythms, demonstrating his ability to balance technical prowess with accessibility.
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The Huckle-Buck — A lively interpretation of this classic tune, Bryant’s version highlights his ability to infuse traditional jazz with playful improvisation, making it a delightful highlight on the album.

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 combines infectious rhythms with strong ensemble work, making it engaging yet accessible.

What we noticed

The album features a consistent use of syncopated rhythms and lively melodies, creating an upbeat atmosphere throughout.
The title track is divided into two parts, with each part emphasizing different rhythmic variations while maintaining thematic continuity.

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

infectious grooves for dancing
steady rhythm for social gatherings
engaging sway-inducing energy
short bursts of lively fun

Maybe skip if you

prefer introspective listening experiences
seek lengthy, immersive compositions

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1960, Madison Time marked Ray Bryant's transition into a more commercially appealing sound after his earlier works. At this point, he was establishing himself as a prominent pianist and bandleader in the jazz scene, following his success with previous albums like 'The Ray Bryant Combo'.
Stylistic neighbors: McCoy Tyner· Cecil Taylor· Horace Silver

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 The Madison Time - Part I 3:06
2 The Madison Time - Part II 2:48
3 Centerpiece 4:22
4 Split T - Part I 4:02
5 Split T - Part II 5:20
6 Hit It! - Part I 3:15
7 Hit It! - Part II 4:10
8 Young Buddy 4:03
9 The Huckle-Buck 5:09

What to play next

Listen next

Ray Bryant Plays

1960

Go back to

Alone with the Blues

1959

Full Ray Bryant discography Artists like Ray Bryant

jazz

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata