What makes Memphis to New York Spirit by John Patton notable?

This album is notable for its critical reception, particularly for reviving interest in Patton's work and contributing to the organ trio format's resurgence in jazz. It has been recognized for blending traditional jazz elements with innovative improvisation, influencing a new generation of musicians exploring similar styles. Released in 1996, Memphis to New York Spirit marked John Patton's return to recording after a hiatus following the late 1970s. This album came during a time when he was reconnecting with his musical identity, showcasing his mastery of the organ and solidifying his role in the contemporary jazz scene.

How many songs are on Memphis to New York Spirit?

Memphis to New York Spirit has 8 tracks, running approximately 58 minutes.

Released 30 years ago

Memphis to New York Spirit

John Patton · 1996

58 min · 8 tracks · jazz

A vibrant blend of hard-bop grooves and soulful improvisation, echoing the spirit of jazz's rich southern roots.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Memphis — Opening the album, this track establishes a playful yet confident tone, showcasing Patton's command over rhythm and melody with infectious energy.
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Cissy Strut — This cover of The Meters' classic highlights Patton's ability to reinterpret funk through a jazz lens while providing a strong groove that invites listener engagement.
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Dragon Slayer — The intricate interplay between instruments here illustrates Patton’s skill in crafting complex arrangements that maintain accessibility and danceable rhythms.

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 showcases strong grooves and improvisation, effectively blending traditional jazz elements.

What we noticed

The album features a consistent use of organ as the lead instrument, with rhythmic support from drums and bass throughout.
Each track maintains a strong groove, often extending solos that showcase improvisation over structured chord progressions.
The sequencing includes tracks that vary in tempo but consistently return to upbeat, danceable rhythms, creating an engaging flow.

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.

Tracklist

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

1 Memphis 5:58
2 Footprints 6:26
3 The Mandingo 7:56
4 Bloodyun 8:25
5 Steno 9:18
6 Man From Tanganyika 6:21
7 Cissy Strut 6:58
8 Dragon Slayer 6:35

What to play next

Listen next

This One's for Ja

1998

Go back to

Minor Swing

1995

Full John Patton discography Artists like John Patton

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Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata