What makes Pilgrimage by Michael Brecker notable?

'Pilgrimage' received critical acclaim, including a Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Jazz Album. It is noted for its emotional depth and complexity, often regarded as an influential work in the contemporary jazz landscape, reflecting Brecker's battle with illness while still pushing creative boundaries. Released in 2007, 'Pilgrimage' marked Michael Brecker's final studio album before his passing in 2007. At this stage in his career, he was already a revered figure in jazz, known for his innovative contributions and collaborations. This album serves as both a culmination of his artistic journey and a poignant farewell to his fans.

How many songs are on Pilgrimage?

Pilgrimage has 9 tracks, running approximately 77 minutes.

Pilgrimage

Michael Brecker · 2007

77 min · 9 tracks · jazz

A masterful blend of intricate melodies and improvisational flair, showcasing Brecker's virtuosity against a rich tapestry of jazz textures.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Five Months From Midnight — This track features an evocative exploration of time and memory through intricate solos, reflecting Brecker's deep understanding of jazz phrasing.
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When Can I Kiss You Again? — The emotional weight of this piece is palpable, blending lyrical melodies with expressive improvisation that captures longing and connection.
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Pilgrimage — Serving as the album's title track, it embodies the thematic journey of the record, showcasing Brecker's signature sound and compositional depth.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

79 /100

Summit

Higher than 99% of albums we've rated

Brecker's intricate compositions and masterful execution create a standout jazz album with depth and emotional resonance.

What we noticed

Brecker's saxophone leads are frequently accompanied by rich harmonies from the ensemble, creating a layered sound texture.
Several tracks include extended improvisational solos that showcase the musicians' virtuosity and interaction.
The final track, 'Pilgrimage', serves as a reflective conclusion, slowing down the pace and providing a sense of closure.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 9/10
Durability 25% of the score: 8/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

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.

Tracklist

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

1 The Mean Time 6:57
2 Five Months From Midnight 7:41
3 Anagram 10:11
4 Tumbleweed 9:39
5 When Can I Kiss You Again? 9:45
6 Cardinal Rule 7:33
7 Half Moon Lane 7:18
8 Loose Threads 8:36
9 Pilgrimage 10:02

What to play next

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Jazz Academy (Pure Essentials For Jazzaholics)

2006

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