Is Oneness a good place to start with Jack DeJohnette?

Yes, Oneness is recommended as a starting point for new Jack DeJohnette listeners. A transcendent blend of free jazz and ethereal soundscapes, inviting listeners into an expansive auditory journey. Oneness marks a significant chapter in Jack DeJohnette's career as it comes after his acclaimed work during the 1990s, including the celebrated album The Impulse Sessions. By this time, DeJohnette had established himself as a key figure in jazz, known for his innovative drumming and compositional skills. This album showcases his evolution toward more spiritual and meditative elements in music.

Oneness works well if you're into meditative soundscape exploration, gradual build to introspection and spiritual journey through listening.

How many songs are on Oneness?

Oneness has 5 tracks, running approximately 63 minutes.

Oneness

Jack DeJohnette · 1997

63 min · 5 tracks · jazz

A transcendent blend of free jazz and ethereal soundscapes, inviting listeners into an expansive auditory journey.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Welcome Blessing Start here — accessible entry with immediate hook
→
Free Above Sea — This track stands out with its intricate interplay between instruments, showcasing DeJohnette's masterful drumming and the fluid improvisation characteristic of free jazz.
→
Priestesses of the Mist — As one of the album's longest pieces, it epitomizes the spiritual journey of Oneness through its evolving textures and rhythmic variations, creating a profound listening experience.
→
From the Heart / C.M.A. — This epic composition blends diverse musical ideas, illustrating DeJohnette’s ability to weave complex narratives within his music while highlighting emotional depth.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

meditative soundscape exploration
gradual build to introspection
spiritual journey through listening
long-form immersive experience

Maybe skip if you

prefer short, standalone tracks
seek immediate gratification

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Critical Peak — Ambitious fusion of jazz and new age, reflecting a significant evolution in DeJohnette's sound.
Career context: Oneness marks a significant chapter in Jack DeJohnette's career as it comes after his acclaimed work during the 1990s, including the celebrated album The Impulse Sessions. By this time, DeJohnette had established himself as a key figure in jazz, known for his innovative drumming and compositional skills. This album showcases his evolution toward more spiritual and meditative elements in music.
Stylistic neighbors: Tony Williams· Chick Corea· Brian Blade