What makes One Flight Down by Cedar Walton notable?

One Flight Down was well-received within jazz circles, demonstrating Walton's enduring appeal and musical expertise. The album showcases his ability to interpret standards and original compositions alike, contributing to its critical acclaim and solidifying Walton's status within the genre. By the time Cedar Walton released One Flight Down in 2006, he was a seasoned veteran of the jazz scene, known for his decades-long contributions since the 1960s. This album came as a follow-up to his previous work, featuring his unique blend of hard bop and contemporary jazz influences, solidifying his legacy as an influential pianist and composer.

Who is One Flight Down for?

One Flight Down works well if you're into intimate evening relaxation sessions, thoughtful exploration of melodies and rich harmonic improvisation focus.

How many songs are on One Flight Down?

One Flight Down has 9 tracks, running approximately 55 minutes.

Released 20 years ago

One Flight Down

Cedar Walton · 2006

55 min · 9 tracks · jazz

A rich tapestry of jazz infused with intricate harmonies and melodic improvisation, showcasing Walton's piano mastery.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Seven Minds — This track features Walton's intricate piano lines over a dynamic rhythm section, embodying the album's essence with its exploratory yet structured improvisation.
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Little Sunflower — A reinterpretation of a classic jazz standard, this track highlights Walton's lyrical playing style and emotional depth, making it a standout moment on the album.
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Strayhorn Medley (Lush Life) — In this medley, Walton pays homage to Billy Strayhorn's composition with a sensitive interpretation that captures both nostalgia and innovation.

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

Walton's mastery shines through intricate compositions and skilled improvisation, making it a solid jazz album.

What we noticed

Each track varies in tempo and mood, with several pieces transitioning seamlessly into one another, creating a cohesive flow.
The use of harmonies is prominent, particularly in the Strayhorn Medley, where Walton explores different interpretations of the themes.

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: 6/10
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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

intimate evening relaxation sessions
thoughtful exploration of melodies
rich harmonic improvisation focus
cascading piano-driven narratives

Maybe skip if you

seeking fast-paced excitement
prefer short, standalone tracks

Where this album fits

Career context: By the time Cedar Walton released One Flight Down in 2006, he was a seasoned veteran of the jazz scene, known for his decades-long contributions since the 1960s. This album came as a follow-up to his previous work, featuring his unique blend of hard bop and contemporary jazz influences, solidifying his legacy as an influential pianist and composer.
Stylistic neighbors: McCoy Tyner· Chick Corea· Bill Evans

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 One Flight Down 5:35
2 The Rubber Man 4:37
3 Strayhorn Medley (Lush Life) 5:29
4 Strayhorn Medley (Daydream) 4:39
5 Strayhorn Medley (Raincheck) 4:09
6 Seven Minds 6:59
7 Time After Time 7:49
8 Hammer Head 6:32
9 Little Sunflower 9:45

What to play next

Listen next

Seasoned Wood

2008

Go back to

Underground Memoirs

2005

Full Cedar Walton discography Artists like Cedar Walton

jazz swing

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata