Is My Point of View a good place to start with Herbie Hancock?

Yes, My Point of View is recommended as a starting point for new Herbie Hancock listeners. A rich tapestry of modal jazz, blending intricate melodies with rhythmic complexity and exploratory improvisation. Released in 1963, My Point of View marked Herbie Hancock's second album as a bandleader, following his acclaimed debut, Takin' Off. At this point in his career, Hancock was establishing himself as a prominent figure in the jazz scene and beginning to define his unique style that would later influence jazz fusion.

Who is My Point of View for?

My Point of View works well if you're into steady pacing with gradual evolution, soulful improvisation for reflective moments and vibrant melodies inviting deep focus.

How many songs are on My Point of View?

My Point of View has 5 tracks, running approximately 34 minutes.

My Point of View

Herbie Hancock · 1963

34 min · 5 tracks · classical music

A rich tapestry of modal jazz, blending intricate melodies with rhythmic complexity and exploratory improvisation.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Blind Man, Blind Man Start here — This track opens the album with an expansive arrangement that highlights Hancock's skillful piano work and sets a contemplative tone that resonates throughout the record.
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A Tribute to Someone — This piece showcases Hancock's ability to blend emotive melodies with intricate harmonies, reflecting deep respect and admiration for fellow musicians while pushing the boundaries of traditional jazz.
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King Cobra — Featuring a dynamic interplay between instruments, this track exemplifies the album's themes of exploration and innovation within jazz, driven by Hancock's adventurous piano style.

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 intricate compositions and improvisation but lacks the cohesive flow of a more polished work.

What we noticed

Each track features extended improvisation sections, allowing musicians to explore themes and motifs in depth.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

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 pacing with gradual evolution
soulful improvisation for reflective moments
vibrant melodies inviting deep focus
in-order listening for full experience

Maybe skip if you

seeking instant gratification
prefer short standalone tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Helped solidify Hancock's reputation as a pioneering artist in jazz.
Themes: soulful improvisation· innovative jazz fusion· complex harmonies
Moods: Introspective· Dreamy
Career context: Released in 1963, My Point of View marked Herbie Hancock's second album as a bandleader, following his acclaimed debut, Takin' Off. At this point in his career, Hancock was establishing himself as a prominent figure in the jazz scene and beginning to define his unique style that would later influence jazz fusion.
Stylistic neighbors: Chick Corea· Weather Report· Miles Davis