What does My Kinda Groove sound like?

A vibrant blend of bossa nova and jazz rhythms, infused with Herbie Mann's signature flute melodies. Rooted in jazz fusion and disco. Start with "Blues in the Closet".

Is My Kinda Groove a good place to start with Herbie Mann?

Yes, My Kinda Groove is recommended as a starting point for new Herbie Mann listeners. A vibrant blend of bossa nova and jazz rhythms, infused with Herbie Mann's signature flute melodies. In 1965, Herbie Mann was establishing himself as a significant figure in the jazz world, following his breakthrough album 'Do the Bossa Nova' from 1962. 'My Kinda Groove' arrived at a time when Mann was embracing diverse influences, further expanding the boundaries of jazz by incorporating elements from Latin music and pop culture.

Who is My Kinda Groove for?

My Kinda Groove works well if you're into easygoing afternoon vibes, short bursts of rhythmic energy and melodic explorations with lively textures.

How many songs are on My Kinda Groove?

My Kinda Groove has 7 tracks, running approximately 32 minutes.

My Kinda Groove

Herbie Mann · 1965

32 min · 7 tracks · jazz

A vibrant blend of bossa nova and jazz rhythms, infused with Herbie Mann's signature flute melodies.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Blues in the Closet Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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Morning After Carnival — This track beautifully showcases Mann's ability to blend intricate flute melodies with lush harmonic textures, making it a standout representation of the album’s bossa nova influence.
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Soul Guajira — With its infectious groove and rhythmic complexity, this track exemplifies Mann's innovative approach to fusing different cultural sounds within a jazz framework.
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Saudade de Bahia — This piece highlights the emotional depth inherent in Brazilian music, paired with Mann's expressive flute performance that captures a sense of longing and nostalgia.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

64 /100

Treeline

Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong compositions with distinctive flute melodies and varied arrangements, making it engaging yet cohesive.

What we noticed

The album features a consistent use of flute as the lead instrument, creating a distinct melodic voice throughout.
Each track varies in tempo and mood, with some pieces like 'Blues in the Closet' being more laid-back while others like 'Soul Guajira' are more rhythmically intense.
The arrangements often include layered percussion, which adds depth and complexity to the overall sound.

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

Influence 2/10

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

easygoing afternoon vibes
short bursts of rhythmic energy
melodic explorations with lively textures
inviting danceable grooves

Maybe skip if you

prefer lengthy, immersive albums
want intense, heavy compositions

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This album contributed to Mann's recognition in the jazz and bossa nova scenes.
Themes: Brazilian bossa nova· carnival rhythms· cultural fusion
Career context: In 1965, Herbie Mann was establishing himself as a significant figure in the jazz world, following his breakthrough album 'Do the Bossa Nova' from 1962. 'My Kinda Groove' arrived at a time when Mann was embracing diverse influences, further expanding the boundaries of jazz by incorporating elements from Latin music and pop culture.
Stylistic neighbors: Chick Corea· Stan Getz· Weather Report