Is Monster a good place to start with Herbie Hancock?

Yes, Monster is recommended as a starting point for new Herbie Hancock listeners. A vibrant blend of jazz fusion and funk, Monster pulses with energetic grooves and synthesizer textures that define early '80s experimentation. When Monster was released in 1980, Herbie Hancock was transitioning from his groundbreaking work in jazz towards more commercial sounds. This album followed his critically acclaimed Head Hunters (1973), marking a period where he embraced electronic elements and funk rhythms while continuing to innovate within jazz.

Monster works well if you're into steady grooves for dancing, vibrant energy for gatherings and evening relaxation with friends.

How many songs are on Monster?

Monster has 6 tracks, running approximately 42 minutes.

Monster

Herbie Hancock · 1980

42 min · 6 tracks · classical music

A vibrant blend of jazz fusion and funk, Monster pulses with energetic grooves and synthesizer textures that define early '80s experimentation.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Saturday Night Start here — This track exemplifies Hancock's unique blend of jazz and funk, featuring intricate keyboard solos layered over a danceable rhythm.
→
Go for It — With its infectious groove and playful melodies, this track captures the spirit of the album while showcasing Hancock's innovative use of synthesizers.
→
Don't Hold It In — The elongated arrangement allows for extended improvisation, highlighting the interplay between Hancock's keys and the rhythm section, making it a standout piece.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

60 /100

Treeline

Higher than 66% of albums we've rated

Monster showcases strong synth-driven compositions with engaging grooves, reflecting Hancock's innovative approach to jazz fusion.

What we noticed

The album prominently features synthesizers, with layered textures that create a rich soundscape throughout its six tracks.
Each track maintains a consistent groove, often driven by rhythmic bass lines and syncopated drum patterns.
The use of call-and-response between instruments is prevalent, giving the impression of conversation within the music.

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: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

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 grooves for dancing
vibrant energy for gatherings
evening relaxation with friends
sing-along moments throughout
satisfying mid-tempo flow

Maybe skip if you

seeking quick, punchy tracks
prefer minimalistic soundscapes

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Experimental — Represents Hancock's shift into electro-funk, diverging from his earlier jazz styles.
Themes: late-70s vibrancy· electro-funk evolution· danceable jazz grooves
Moods: Energetic· Uplifting
Career context: When Monster was released in 1980, Herbie Hancock was transitioning from his groundbreaking work in jazz towards more commercial sounds. This album followed his critically acclaimed Head Hunters (1973), marking a period where he embraced electronic elements and funk rhythms while continuing to innovate within jazz.
Stylistic neighbors: Chick Corea· Weather Report· Miles Davis