What makes Pieces of the Sun by Tony Levin notable?

Pieces of the Sun received critical acclaim for its innovative approach, noted by publications like Progression Magazine, which highlighted Levin's ability to transcend traditional genre boundaries. The album contributed to Levin's reputation as a pioneering figure in the realm of instrumental music, influencing subsequent artists in both jazz and rock genres. Released in 2002, Pieces of the Sun marked Tony Levin's return to solo work after a decade-long hiatus, following his contributions to notable bands such as King Crimson and Peter Gabriel. This album showcased Levin's mastery as a bassist and composer, blending elements of jazz and progressive rock while further establishing his identity outside collaborative projects.

How many songs are on Pieces of the Sun?

Pieces of the Sun has 12 tracks, running approximately 67 minutes.

Pieces of the Sun

Tony Levin · 2002

67 min · 12 tracks · jazz

A mesmerizing blend of intricate bass lines and ethereal soundscapes that evoke the essence of the cosmos.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Apollo — This opening track features a sophisticated interplay between bass and ambient textures, setting the tone for the album's cosmic themes.
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Geronimo — With its catchy melody and rhythmic complexity, this track showcases Levin's knack for creating engaging instrumental hooks.
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Pieces of the Sun — The title track encapsulates the album's essence with its rich layers and contemplative atmosphere, representing Levin's artistic vision.
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Ever the Sun Will Rise — Closing the album on a reflective note, this piece combines emotional depth with intricate musicianship, leaving a lasting impression.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

64 /100

Treeline

Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

Levin's intricate bass work and ambient textures create a distinct sound, though its impact remains niche.

What we noticed

The album features a consistent use of layered bass lines that create a rich, textured sound throughout its duration.
Tracks often shift dynamics and tempo, with several pieces incorporating ambient soundscapes that contrast with the rhythmic bass.
The final track fades out slowly, leaving an extended silence that emphasizes the ethereal quality of the preceding music.

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: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 2/10

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.

Tracklist

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

1 Apollo 6:49
2 Geronimo 3:11
3 Aquafin 5:14
4 Dog One 5:15
5 Tequila 5:20
6 Pieces of the Sun 7:20
7 Phobos 7:08
8 Ooze 4:16
9 Blue Nude Reclining 3:08
10 The Fifth Man 5:47
11 Ever the Sun Will Rise 9:08
12 Silhouette 4:35

What to play next

Listen next

Double Espresso

2002

Go back to

Waters of Eden

2000

Full Tony Levin discography Artists like Tony Levin

jazz progressive rock

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata