Out of the Shadows
Dave Grusin · 1982
43 min · 8 tracks · jazz
A vibrant fusion of intricate melodies and lush harmonies, blending jazz with cinematic textures and an adventurous spirit.
Top tracks — play these first
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Last Train to Paradiso Start here — This track opens the album with a captivating melody that sets a whimsical tone, highlighting Grusin's skill in creating lush arrangements. Its seamless blend of jazz improvisation and pop sensibilities showcases the essence of the album.
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Anthem Internationale — With its grand orchestration and uplifting themes, this track exemplifies Grusin's ability to merge cinematic qualities with jazz. Its sweeping melodic lines create an inspiring atmosphere that resonates throughout the album.
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Serengeti Walk (Slippin’ in the Back Door) — This track features intricate rhythms and melodic interplay, reflecting Grusin's deep understanding of world music influences. It offers a dynamic listening experience that embodies the adventurous spirit of the album.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalThe album showcases strong compositions with skilled arrangements, though it doesn't significantly stand out in the jazz genre.
What we noticed
- The album features a consistent use of lush synthesizers and acoustic instruments, creating a rich soundscape throughout.
- Each track typically maintains a moderate tempo, with several pieces incorporating intricate melodic lines that weave in and out of the arrangement.
- The final track introduces a more subdued atmosphere, contrasting with the earlier pieces and providing a reflective conclusion.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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6/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Little footprint beyond its audience. 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
- gentle grooves for relaxation
- long, flowing instrumental passages
- sunset drive soundtrack vibes
- reflective moments of tranquility
Maybe skip if you
- fast-paced music seekers
- instant gratification listeners
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Breakthrough — Helped define early '80s jazz fusion, gaining critical acclaim and recognition.
- Themes
- cinematic jazz fusion· whimsical melodies· world music influences
- Career context
- Out of the Shadows is Dave Grusin's sixth studio album, released in 1982 after his successful work composing film scores. At this point in his career, Grusin was transitioning from primarily a composer to a prominent contemporary jazz musician, showcasing his versatility and expanding his audience. This album followed his acclaimed score for the film The Graduate and solidified his reputation in the jazz fusion scene.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Chick Corea· Herbie Hancock· Brad Mehldau
Tracklist
- 1 Last Train to Paradiso Start here 5:15
- 2 She Could Be Mine 5:19
- 3 Crystal Morning 5:50
- 4 Five Brothers 6:05
- 5 Anthem Internationale 6:58
- 6 Serengeti Walk (Slippin’ in the Back Door) 6:50
- 7 Hokkaido 1:59
- 8 Sweetwater Nights 5:14
If this landed
Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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