Music for the Fifth World
Jack DeJohnette · 1993
61 min · 9 tracks · jazz
A vibrant fusion of free jazz and spiritual themes, weaving together complex rhythms and melodic improvisation.
Top tracks — play these first
-
→
Fifth World Anthem Start here — The opening track sets the thematic tone for the album, combining rhythmic complexity with an expansive sonic landscape that invites listeners into DeJohnette's vision of unity.
-
→
Darkness to Light — This lengthy piece showcases DeJohnette's ability to create a dynamic musical journey, transitioning from somber tones to uplifting melodies, reflecting profound emotional depth.
-
→
Witchi Tia To — A reimagining of a traditional Native American song, this track highlights DeJohnette's respect for cultural roots while infusing it with a contemporary jazz interpretation that resonates with spiritual themes.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalThe album's intricate soundscapes and thoughtful arrangements create a distinctive listening experience.
What we noticed
- Several tracks incorporate repetitive motifs that gradually develop, inviting listeners to engage with the subtle changes in texture and rhythm.
- The use of space and silence is prominent, particularly in the transitions between tracks, which often feel like meditative pauses.
- 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
-
8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
-
7/10
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
- immersive soundscapes for deep listening
- patient explorations of rhythmic patterns
- reflective moments of quiet introspection
- transcendent journeys through diverse themes
Maybe skip if you
- prefer fast-paced, energetic tracks
- want quick, catchy songs
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Experimental — Features a unique blend of styles, showcasing a departure from DeJohnette's earlier works.
- Career context
- By 1993, Jack DeJohnette was an established figure in jazz, having gained recognition through his work with legends like Miles Davis. 'Music for the Fifth World' came after his acclaimed album 'Special Edition' (1980), showcasing his evolution towards incorporating world music influences into his jazz compositions.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Tony Williams· Chick Corea· Brian Blade
Tracklist
- 1 Fifth World Anthem Start here 9:26
- 2 Dohiyi Circle #1 3:02
- 3 Miles 8:19
- 4 Two Guitar Chant/Dohiyi 6:00
- 5 Deception Blues 4:58
- 6 Witchi Tia To 6:14
- 7 Darkness to Light 12:34
- 8 Dohiyi Circle #2 2:31
- 9 Aboriginal Dream Time 8:09
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
Sync your library
Everything you track here works immediately — no account needed. Create one when you want to sync across devices.