What makes MCMLXX by Ray Bryant notable?

MCMLXX features a mix of popular songs and jazz standards, reflecting the era's trend of jazz artists interpreting contemporary hits. The album received critical acclaim for its innovative arrangements and marked a significant moment for Bryant, helping to solidify his position in the jazz genre. Released in 1970, MCMLXX was Ray Bryant's fourth album, following his notable work in the late 1960s that established him as a prominent jazz pianist. At this point in his career, he was beginning to explore more popular music influences, bridging the gap between jazz and mainstream appeal.

MCMLXX works well if you're into steady pacing for relaxed listening, intricate piano improvisations to savor and timeless melodies with vibrant twists.

How many songs are on MCMLXX?

MCMLXX has 8 tracks, running approximately 34 minutes.

MCMLXX

Ray Bryant · 1970

34 min · 8 tracks · jazz

Jazz standards intertwine with soulful interpretations, showcasing vibrant piano work and rich arrangements that breathe new life into classic melodies.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Let It Be — This track showcases Bryant's ability to transform a well-known song into a smooth jazz piece, emphasizing emotional depth through intricate piano lines.
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Bridge Over Troubled Waters — Bryant’s arrangement captures the essence of the original while adding a jazz sensibility, making it a standout example of genre blending on the album.
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Hey Jude — This rendition highlights Bryant's skillful improvisation and ability to evoke strong feelings, turning a rock anthem into a contemplative jazz experience.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

56 /100

Foothills

Higher than 47% of albums we've rated

The album blends jazz standards with popular songs, featuring vibrant piano work and rich arrangements.

What we noticed

The album features a consistent use of syncopated rhythms across the tracks, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere.
Each track showcases intricate piano solos that often deviate from the original melodies, adding a personal touch to familiar songs.

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: 5/10

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

steady pacing for relaxed listening
intricate piano improvisations to savor
timeless melodies with vibrant twists
ideal for afternoon gatherings

Maybe skip if you

seeking high-energy tracks
prefer shorter, standalone songs

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1970, MCMLXX was Ray Bryant's fourth album, following his notable work in the late 1960s that established him as a prominent jazz pianist. At this point in his career, he was beginning to explore more popular music influences, bridging the gap between jazz and mainstream appeal.
Stylistic neighbors: McCoy Tyner· Cecil Taylor· Horace Silver

Tracklist

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

1 Stick With It 5:51
2 Let It Be 4:01
3 Bridge Over Troubled Waters 3:20
4 Hey Jude 4:50
5 Shake-A-Lady 2:38
6 Unchained Melody 4:45
7 My Cherie Amour 4:56
8 Spinning Wheel 3:39

What to play next

Listen next

In the Cut

1974

Go back to

Sound Ray

1969

Full Ray Bryant discography Artists like Ray Bryant

jazz

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata