Parallel Realities
Jack DeJohnette · 1990
54 min · 7 tracks · jazz
A sonic tapestry weaving together intricate rhythms, ethereal melodies, and improvisational freedom that transcends traditional jazz boundaries.
Top tracks — play these first
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Jack In Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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Exotic Isles — This track stands out for its lush soundscapes and rhythmic complexity, showcasing DeJohnette's ability to fuse diverse influences into a coherent musical journey.
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Dancing — With its vibrant energy and engaging interplay between instruments, this track exemplifies the improvisational spirit that permeates the entire album.
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Parallel Realities — The title track encapsulates the essence of the album, blending intricate motifs with expansive freeform sections that invite deep listening and reflection.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalThe album's intricate rhythms and improvisational style reflect a unique blend of jazz and world music elements.
What we noticed
- Each track showcases extended improvisation, with musicians frequently exchanging solos rather than adhering to a strict melodic line.
- The final track, 'Parallel Realities', incorporates ambient textures and layered instrumentation, creating a dense soundscape that contrasts with the more rhythmic pieces earlier in the album.
- 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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8/10
- 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
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
- steady exploration of soundscapes
- immersive journey through rhythms
- fluid transitions between tracks
- thoughtful background for reflection
Maybe skip if you
- prefer quick, catchy tunes
- seek immediate gratification
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Critical Peak — Represents an innovative blend of styles and received significant critical acclaim.
- Career context
- By the time of its release in 1990, Jack DeJohnette was already an established figure in jazz, known for his work with Miles Davis and his own ensemble. 'Parallel Realities' represents a continuation of his exploration into the fusion of jazz with other genres, following the acclaimed album 'Special Edition' from 1980. This record further solidified his reputation as a pioneering drummer and composer in the evolving landscape of jazz.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Tony Williams· Chick Corea· Brian Blade
Tracklist
- 1 Jack In Start here 6:28
- 2 Exotic Isles 6:28
- 3 Dancing 7:47
- 4 Nine Over Reggae 7:29
- 5 John McKee 8:15
- 6 Indigo Dreamscapes 6:50
- 7 Parallel Realities 11:08
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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