What makes New Directions in Europe by Jack DeJohnette notable?

The album is notable for its ambitious structure and length, with each track extending beyond typical jazz timing, reflecting the experimental ethos of the late 1970s. It received critical acclaim, particularly for its innovative blend of genres, helping to solidify DeJohnette's reputation as a pioneering figure in jazz. Released in 1978, 'New Directions in Europe' marked a significant phase in Jack DeJohnette's career as he transitioned from his earlier work with iconic artists like Miles Davis. This album showcased his growth as a bandleader and composer, integrating a broader range of global musical styles into his improvisational approach, setting the stage for future explorations in jazz fusion.

How many songs are on New Directions in Europe?

New Directions in Europe has 4 tracks, running approximately 56 minutes.

New Directions in Europe

Jack DeJohnette

56 min · 4 tracks · jazz

A vibrant tapestry of rhythmic exploration and intricate melodies, weaving together elements of free jazz and world music influences.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Salsa for Eddie G. — This track epitomizes the album's spirit with its infectious rhythms and celebrates the influence of Latin styles on jazz improvisation.
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Where or Wayne — With its intricate interplay among musicians, this track highlights DeJohnette's mastery in blending complex arrangements with fluid solos.
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Bayou Fever — The extended format allows for deep exploration of melodic themes, showcasing the band’s chemistry and DeJohnette’s innovative drumming techniques.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

77 /100

Alpine

Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album displays strong compositional elements and skilled execution, making it a notable entry in contemporary jazz.

What we noticed

The album features a consistent use of polyrhythms across all four tracks, creating a complex yet cohesive rhythmic foundation.
Each track showcases a different instrumental texture, with varied combinations of piano, drums, and bass that shift throughout the record.
The final track introduces an extended improvisational section that gradually builds in intensity before resolving into a quieter conclusion.

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 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.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This album helped establish DeJohnette's reputation in the jazz scene.
Themes: Latin jazz rhythms· European cultural fusion· improvisational exploration
Career context: Released in 1978, 'New Directions in Europe' marked a significant phase in Jack DeJohnette's career as he transitioned from his earlier work with iconic artists like Miles Davis. This album showcased his growth as a bandleader and composer, integrating a broader range of global musical styles into his improvisational approach, setting the stage for future explorations in jazz fusion.
Stylistic neighbors: Tony Williams· Chick Corea· Brian Blade