Places cover

Places

Béla Fleck · 1988

71 min · 18 tracks · jazz · bluegrass music

A vibrant fusion of bluegrass and jazz that showcases Fleck's virtuosic banjo playing and intricate compositions.

Why this album works

Best for
dynamic journey with emotional peaks wave-like pacing with surprises engaging instrumental storytelling moments
Context
Released in 1988, 'Places' marks Béla Fleck's third solo album, following his acclaimed work with the Flecktones. At this point in his career, Fleck was establishing himself as a pioneering figure in the progressive bluegrass scene while also exploring jazz influences, thus expanding his artistic reach.
If you like
jazz, bluegrass music

Places is an album by Béla Fleck, released in 1988. A vibrant fusion of bluegrass and jazz that showcases Fleck's virtuosic banjo playing and intricate compositions. The album was well-received for its innovative blend of genres, contributing to the evolution of both bluegrass and jazz music. It helped solidify Fleck's reputation as a unique voice in American music, leading to numerous accolades and collaborations that followed throughout his career. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Places sound like?

A vibrant fusion of bluegrass and jazz that showcases Fleck's virtuosic banjo playing and intricate compositions. Rooted in jazz and bluegrass music.

What makes Places by Béla Fleck notable?

The album was well-received for its innovative blend of genres, contributing to the evolution of both bluegrass and jazz music. It helped solidify Fleck's reputation as a unique voice in American music, leading to numerous accolades and collaborations that followed throughout his career. Released in 1988, 'Places' marks Béla Fleck's third solo album, following his acclaimed work with the Flecktones. At this point in his career, Fleck was establishing himself as a pioneering figure in the progressive bluegrass scene while also exploring jazz influences, thus expanding his artistic reach.

Who is Places for?

Places works well if you're into dynamic journey with emotional peaks, wave-like pacing with surprises and engaging instrumental storytelling moments.

How many songs are on Places?

Places has 18 tracks, running approximately 71 minutes.

Tracklist

18 tracks·71:31

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

  • 1 Deviation 4:26
  • 2 Reverie 1:32
  • 3 Nuns for Nixon Standout 4:10
  • 4 Malone 1:08
  • 5 Moontides Standout 5:36
  • 6 Another Morning 3:26
  • 7 Lowdown 3:33
  • 8 The Bullfrog Shuffle 1:33
  • 9 Places Standout 7:09
  • 10 Snakes Alive 4:22
  • 11 Ladies and Gentleman 2:20
  • 12 Light Speed 2:30
  • 13 Ireland 6:50
  • 14 Four Wheel Drive 3:57
  • 15 Perplexed 6:22
  • 16 The Old Country 2:58
  • 17 Hudson's Bay 5:22
  • 18 Close to Home 4:08

Release Date

January 1, 1988

Genre

bluegrass music, jazz

More albums in bluegrass music

Artist Origin

United States

Runtime

71 min 31 sec