Now's the Time cover

Now's the Time

Sonny Rollins · 1964

34 min · 8 tracks · jazz

A vibrant tapestry of post-bop improvisation, blending intricate melodies with soulful rhythms and a touch of Caribbean influence.

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Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    St. Thomas — This track highlights Rollins' ability to blend traditional Caribbean themes with modern jazz elements, showcasing his unique sound and rhythmic creativity.
  • →
    I Remember Clifford — Rollins delivers a poignant tribute to his late friend, capturing both melancholy and beauty through expressive phrasing that resonates deeply.
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    Now’s the Time Start here — The title track stands out for its infectious groove and improvisational brilliance, embodying the spirit of spontaneity that defines much of Rollins' work.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental
67 /100
Alpine
Higher than 91% of albums we've rated

Rollins' inventive arrangements and improvisation mark this as a strong post-bop record.

What we noticed

  • Several tracks incorporate Caribbean rhythms, particularly evident in 'St. Thomas', which adds a distinct flavor to the overall sound.
  • The arrangements often shift dynamically, with instruments weaving in and out of the foreground, creating a layered texture.
Composition 25% of the score
8/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
7/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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

  • dynamic emotional journeys
  • long, immersive listening sessions
  • contemplative late-night vibes
  • melodic improvisation focus

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Critical Peak — Often cited for its inventive arrangements and significant contribution to post-bop.
Themes
post-bop evolution· calypso influences· melodic improvisation
Career context
By the time 'Now's the Time' was released in 1964, Sonny Rollins was already an established figure in jazz, following his acclaimed album 'The Bridge' from 1962. This album marked his return to the studio after a brief hiatus and showcased his evolving style as he continued to push the boundaries of jazz improvisation.
Stylistic neighbors
John Coltrane· Ornette Coleman· Wayne Shorter
New to Sonny Rollins? Find your way in →

Tracklist

  • 1 Now’s the Time Start here 4:05
  • 2 Blue ’n’ Boogie 5:33
  • 3 I Remember Clifford 2:37
  • 4 Fifty-Second Street Theme 4:34
  • 5 St. Thomas 3:59
  • 6 ’Round Midnight 4:03
  • 7 Afternoon in Paris 2:46
  • 8 Four 7:19

What to play next

Sonny Rollins on Impulse!
Listen next

Sonny Rollins on Impulse!

1965

Continues the post-bop style with rich improvisation and dynamic rhythms.
The Bridge
Go back to

The Bridge

1962

Sets the stage with similar themes and energy that lead into 'Now's the Time'.
Full Sonny Rollins discography Where to start with Sonny Rollins Artists like Sonny Rollins
post-bop

If this landed

Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.

A Love Supreme

A Love Supreme

John Coltrane

Both explore spiritual themes through intricate melodic improvisation and rhythmic complexity.

Maiden Voyage

Maiden Voyage

Herbie Hancock

Shares a similar exploratory spirit with rich harmonies and a focus on melodic interplay.

Unit Structures

Unit Structures

Cecil Taylor

Delves into avant-garde territory while maintaining the improvisational essence of post-bop jazz.

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata