Magic Triangle cover

Magic Triangle

Dave Douglas · 1997

56 min · 9 tracks · jazz

A vibrant fusion of intricate melodies and improvisational freedom that pushes the boundaries of modern jazz.

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Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Everyman Start here — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its engaging melody and conversational interplay between the instruments, showcasing Douglas's skillful composition.
  • →
    Magic Triangle — The title track encapsulates the album's adventurous spirit, featuring unexpected harmonic shifts and dynamic rhythms that highlight each musician's improvisational prowess.
  • →
    Kisangani — This piece stands out for its intricate layering and emotional depth, providing a contemplative moment amidst the album's more frenetic tracks.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

Instrumental
63 /100
Treeline
Higher than 74% of albums we've rated

The album's intricate melodies and improvisation create a distinctive sound within modern jazz.

What we noticed

  • Each track varies in length, with some pieces extending over seven minutes, allowing for expansive exploration of themes.
Composition 25% of the score
8/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

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

  • steady pacing with adventurous peaks
  • intricate compositions for focused listening
  • journey through vibrant improvisation
  • engaging soundscapes for exploration

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer instant gratification tracks
  • seek simple, standalone pieces

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — Solidified Douglas's reputation in avant-garde jazz, gaining critical acclaim.
Themes
avant-garde collaboration· intricate melodies· conversational interplay
Moods
Energetic· Focus
Career context
When Dave Douglas released 'Magic Triangle' in 1997, he was already recognized as a leading figure in avant-garde jazz. This album followed his successful projects such as 'Parallel Worlds' (1996) and marked a period of increased experimentation, featuring innovative collaborations and rich textures in his work.
Stylistic neighbors
Chris Potter· Avishai Cohen· Maria Schneider
New to Dave Douglas? Find your way in →

Tracklist

  • 1 Everyman Start here 4:18
  • 2 Magic Triangle 8:23
  • 3 Padded Cell 6:30
  • 4 Circular 8:20
  • 5 Kisangani 6:15
  • 6 Barrage 3:32
  • 7 Odalisque 7:14
  • 8 Coaster 4:09
  • 9 The Ghost 7:55

What to play next

Moving Portrait
Listen next

Moving Portrait

1998

Continues the vibrant jazz fusion with fresh improvisational explorations.
Stargazer
Go back to

Stargazer

1997

Sets the stage with similar energy and melodic complexity.
Full Dave Douglas discography Where to start with Dave Douglas Artists like Dave Douglas
jazz

If this landed

Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.

Elegiac Cycle

Elegiac Cycle

Brad Mehldau

Explores intricate melodies and improvisation, reflecting a similar avant-garde spirit and conversational interplay.

Voice in the Night

Voice in the Night

Charles Lloyd

Features rich textures and collaborative improvisation, sharing a vibrant jazz atmosphere and melodic complexity.

Concert in the Garden

Concert in the Garden

Maria Schneider

Combines intricate compositions with improvisational freedom, resonating with the avant-garde essence of Douglas's work.

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata