Magic
T-Square · 1981
43 min · 10 tracks · jazz fusion
A vibrant blend of jazz fusion and progressive rock, infused with intricate melodies and rhythmic complexity.
Top tracks — play these first
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IT'S MAGIC Start here — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its infectious melody and dynamic arrangement, showcasing the band's signature interplay between saxophone and keyboards.
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LITTLE MERMAID — With its lush harmonies and intricate melodic lines, this track exemplifies T-Square's ability to blend complex jazz structures with accessible themes, making it a fan favorite.
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KAWAII TECHNO — This closing track fuses elements of electronic music with traditional jazz fusion, representing a forward-thinking approach that hints at future trends within the genre.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalThe album blends intricate melodies with rhythmic complexity, showcasing T-Square's evolving sound in jazz fusion.
What we noticed
- Each track showcases multiple instrumental solos, often trading off between guitar, keyboards, and brass, highlighting the band's virtuosity.
- The first half of the album maintains a brisk tempo, while the latter half introduces slower, more contemplative pieces that allow for melodic exploration.
- 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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7/10
- 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
- consistent melodic journey throughout
- infectious grooves for dancing
- vibrant energy for gatherings
- steady pacing for focused listening
- spirited improvisation that excites
Maybe skip if you
- prefer instant gratification tracks
- seek standalone singles experience
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Breakthrough — Established T-Square's reputation and popularized jazz fusion in Japan.
- Themes
- Japanese jazz fusion scene· spirited improvisation· infectious grooves
- Career context
- Released in 1981, 'Magic' was T-Square's third studio album, following their eponymous debut in 1978 and the sophomore effort 'Beginning' in 1980. At this point, the band had begun to establish their unique sound, characterized by a mix of jazz improvisation and pop sensibilities, setting the stage for their future success in the genre.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Casiopea· Chick Corea Elektric Band· Larry Carlton
Tracklist
- 1 IT'S MAGIC Start here 5:15
- 2 CHOU CHOW 4:09
- 3 I'LL NEVER FORGET YOU 3:35
- 4 LITTLE MERMAID 4:15
- 5 LARISA 4:14
- 6 CHASE 3:05
- 7 SUNSHINE SUNSHINE 4:12
- 8 WANDERING SOLDIER 4:28
- 9 I LUV U 4:18
- 10 KAWAII TECHNO 5:38
If this landed
Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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