Present Joys
Dave Douglas · 2014
42 min · 10 tracks · jazz
A vibrant exploration of jazz textures, seamlessly blending intricate melodies with spontaneous improvisation.
Top tracks — play these first
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Soar Away Start here — Opening the album with an uplifting melody, this track sets the tone for the exploratory spirit of the record with its dynamic interplay between instruments.
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Present Joys — The title track encapsulates the album's thematic essence, weaving together complex harmonies and rhythmic layers that invite deep listening.
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Zero Hour — Closing the album with a reflective yet energetic piece, this track showcases Douglas's mastery of tension and release, leaving a lasting impression.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalThe album blends intricate melodies with improvisation, showcasing strong craftsmanship but limited broader impact.
What we noticed
- Each track showcases a different instrumental focus, such as the prominent use of trumpet in 'Soar Away' and piano in 'Present Joys'.
- Improvisational sections are interspersed throughout, allowing for spontaneous interaction among the musicians.
- 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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6/10
- 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
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.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- steady mid-tempo reflective journey
- intricate melodies for deep focus
- vibrant improvisation with warmth
- thoughtful listening during quiet moments
Maybe skip if you
- prefer faster-paced music
- seek instant gratification tracks
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Fan Favorite — Beloved by fans for its vibrant jazz exploration, though not the most accessible.
- Themes
- spontaneous improvisation· uplifting melodies· dynamic interplay
- Moods
- Introspective· Focus
- Career context
- When 'Present Joys' was released in 2014, Dave Douglas was already an established figure in the jazz scene, known for his innovative approach and collaborations. This album followed his critically acclaimed project 'Be Still' (2013), showcasing a continued evolution in his compositional style and ensemble work.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Chris Potter· Avishai Cohen· Maria Schneider
Tracklist
- 1 Soar Away Start here 3:56
- 2 Ham Fist 5:01
- 3 Bethel 4:50
- 4 Present Joys 4:54
- 5 Supplication 3:00
- 6 Seven Seas 4:27
- 7 Confidence 3:43
- 8 End to End 2:59
- 9 Old Putt 3:54
- 10 Zero Hour 5:26
If this landed
Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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