What makes Patrão by Ron Carter notable?

Patrão is significant for its innovative blend of American jazz and Brazilian rhythms, which helped popularize Latin influences in jazz during the early '80s. The album received critical acclaim and contributed to Carter's reputation not only as a bassist but also as an influential composer in the genre. Released in 1981, Patrão was Ron Carter's first album after his prolific tenure with Miles Davis, marking a pivotal evolution in his career. At this point, Carter had established himself as a leading bassist in jazz, transitioning from sideman to bandleader and showcasing his compositions and distinctive style.

Patrão works well if you're into steady progression with resolution, vibrant energy for social gatherings and rich textures for attentive listening.

How many songs are on Patrão?

Patrão has 5 tracks, running approximately 37 minutes.

Patrão

Ron Carter · 1981

37 min · 5 tracks · jazz

A vibrant fusion of intricate bass lines and rich harmonies, reflecting the heartbeat of Brazilian jazz in a post-bop framework.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Ah, Rio — This opening track sets the tone with its lively rhythm and intricate melodic interplay, showcasing Carter's skillful bass work and compositional prowess.
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Nearly — A complex arrangement that highlights the synergy among the musicians, using dynamic shifts to create an engaging listening experience that encapsulates the album's essence.
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Tail Feathers — This track features a playful dialogue between instruments, exemplifying Carter's ability to weave storytelling into his compositions through rich textures and rhythmic variation.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

Instrumental

60 /100

Treeline

Higher than 66% of albums we've rated

The album blends intricate jazz composition with Brazilian rhythms, creating a distinctive sound that rewards multiple listens.

What we noticed

The album features complex bass lines that serve as the foundation for layered melodies from other instruments, creating a rich harmonic texture.
Each track incorporates Brazilian rhythmic elements, with syncopated patterns that drive the music forward and invite listener engagement.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 6/10

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

steady progression with resolution
vibrant energy for social gatherings
rich textures for attentive listening
inviting rhythms for casual enjoyment

Maybe skip if you

seeking quick, instant gratification
prefer standalone tracks only

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1981, Patrão was Ron Carter's first album after his prolific tenure with Miles Davis, marking a pivotal evolution in his career. At this point, Carter had established himself as a leading bassist in jazz, transitioning from sideman to bandleader and showcasing his compositions and distinctive style.
Stylistic neighbors: Charles Mingus· Jimmy Garrison· Dave Holland