Nude Ants
Keith Jarrett · 1979
101 min · 6 tracks · jazz
A sprawling exploration of improvisational jazz, weaving complex melodies with intricate rhythmic patterns.
Top tracks — play these first
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Chant of the Soil Start here — This track serves as a centerpiece of the album, highlighting Jarrett's ability to create rich textures and emotive crescendos through extended improvisation.
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Processional — Spanning over twenty minutes, this piece captures a spiritual journey through its evolving themes and dynamic interplay among musicians, representing the album's depth.
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Oasis — As one of the longest tracks on the album, 'Oasis' showcases Jarrett's profound storytelling ability through music, blending serene passages with vibrant improvisations.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalThe album showcases intricate improvisation and strong craftsmanship, making it a notable entry in Jarrett's discography.
What we noticed
- The album features extended improvisational sections, with each track averaging over seven minutes, allowing for deep exploration of themes.
- Melodic lines often shift unexpectedly, creating a sense of spontaneity and fluidity throughout the performance.
- Rhythmic patterns frequently change within tracks, moving from complex polyrhythms to more straightforward grooves, which keeps the listener engaged.
- Composition 25% of the score
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8/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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9/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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7/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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
- meditative soundscapes for reflection
- gradual builds towards climax
- exploratory listening in solitude
- long-form pieces for deep focus
- vibrant improvisation with patience
Maybe skip if you
- prefer instant gratification tracks
- seek quick, standalone songs
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Critical Peak — Showcases Jarrett's ambitious structure and deep musicality in improvisational jazz.
- Themes
- spiritual journey· improvisational exploration· natural landscapes
- Career context
- By 1979, Keith Jarrett was already an established figure in the jazz scene, known for his innovative solo piano work. 'Nude Ants' followed his acclaimed live albums and marked a continuation of his exploration into free-form improvisation and ensemble work.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Chick Corea· Brad Mehldau· Bill Evans
Tracklist
Disc 1
- 1 Chant of the Soil Start here 17:12
- 2 Innocence 8:15
- 3 Processional 20:33
Disc 2
- 1 Oasis 30:34
- 2 New Dance 12:57
- 3 Sunshine Song 12:02
If this landed
Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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