Motian in Tokyo
52 min · 10 tracks · jazz
A meditative exploration of free jazz that intertwines intricate rhythms with ethereal harmonies, capturing a unique sonic landscape.
Top tracks — play these first
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Shakalaka — This track exemplifies Motian's signature rhythmic complexity while allowing space for improvisation, creating a captivating conversation between instruments.
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Mumbo Jumbo — With its lengthy exploration, this piece highlights the interplay of textures and dynamics, showcasing Motian's mastery of subtlety and nuance in composition.
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Kathelin Gray — The melodic phrasing and emotive delivery in this track reflect Motian's deep musicality and sensitivity, making it a standout moment on the album.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalThe album showcases intricate rhythms and harmonies, rewarding attentive listening while maintaining a cohesive yet exploratory feel.
What we noticed
- The album features a series of extended improvisational pieces, with each track averaging over six minutes in length.
- Rhythmic patterns shift frequently, creating a fluid sense of movement that encourages active listening.
- Harmonic structures are often left open-ended, allowing for spontaneous interaction between the musicians.
- 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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8/10
- 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
Little footprint beyond its audience. 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
- meditative exploration of sound
- wave-like pacing with peaks
- intricate rhythms encourage focus
- for quiet afternoons
Maybe skip if you
- prefer straightforward, upbeat tracks
- seek instant gratification in music
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in 2011, 'Motian in Tokyo' marks Paul Motian's continued evolution as a pivotal figure in free jazz. This album comes after a prolific period of collaboration and solo work, showcasing his refined compositional style and innovative drumming techniques developed over decades of influence.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Bill Evans· Charles Lloyd· Keith Jarrett
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 From Time to Time 6:58
- 2 Shakalaka 6:18
- 3 Kathelin Gray 6:54
- 4 The Hoax 1:00
- 5 Mumbo Jumbo 10:43
- 6 Birdsong I 1:34
- 7 Mode VI 7:29
- 8 2 Women From Padua 4:53
- 9 It Is 5:11
- 10 Birdsong II 1:32
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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