Natural Bridge
Béla Fleck · 1982
42 min · 11 tracks · jazz · bluegrass music
A seamless fusion of bluegrass, jazz, and classical nuances showcasing Fleck's virtuosic banjo playing.
Why this album works
'Natural Bridge' is notable for its innovative approach to bluegrass and instrumental music, receiving critical acclaim and helping to establish Fleck as a prominent figure in the genre. The album contributed to the growth of newgrass—a movement that expanded bluegrass boundaries—with its complex arrangements and improvisational style.
- Best for
- balanced progression with climactic moments engaging for attentive listening for afternoon reflection
- Context
- Released in 1982, 'Natural Bridge' was Béla Fleck's third album, following his breakout with New Grass Revival. At this point, Fleck was solidifying his reputation as a pioneering force in progressive bluegrass, exploring intricate compositions that blended various genres.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Madonna· Prince· Christina Aguilera· Diana Ross· Barbra Streisand· Chicago· John Coltrane· Frank Zappa
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Punchdrunk 2:39
- 2 Flexibility Standout 4:11
- 3 Dawg's Due Standout 2:59
- 4 Daybreak 3:00
- 5 Bitter Gap 2:59
- 6 October Winds 5:48
- 7 Crossfire 3:26
- 8 Applebutter 2:42
- 9 Old Hickory Waltz 4:53
- 10 Rocky Road 3:24
- 11 The Natural Bridge Suite Standout 6:55
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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