Push Push cover

Push Push

Herbie Mann · 1971

48 min · 8 tracks · jazz

A vibrant fusion of jazz, funk, and world rhythms that invites listeners to dance and reflect simultaneously.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    What’s Going On — This cover of Marvin Gaye’s classic captures the essence of social consciousness while adopting a distinctly jazzy interpretation that resonates with both jazz and pop audiences.
  • →
    Push Push Start here — The title track blends infectious grooves with improvisational flair, embodying the album's spirit of exploration and rhythmic sophistication.
  • →
    Spirit in the Dark — Featuring a captivating mix of soulful melodies and energetic instrumentation, this track highlights Mann's ability to fuse diverse musical elements seamlessly.

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 jazz with funk and world rhythms, showcasing strong compositions and vibrant arrangements.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a title track that features a prominent flute melody layered over a rhythmic funk groove, establishing its danceable vibe.
  • Each track incorporates diverse instrumentation, including horns and percussion, creating a rich tapestry of sound that shifts between jazz and world music influences.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. 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

  • danceable grooves with reflective moments
  • dynamic peaks and valleys throughout
  • for lively gatherings
  • inviting soundscapes for exploration

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer instant gratification tracks
  • seek uniform pacing experiences

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — Marked a shift to popular styles, gaining wider recognition for Mann.
Themes
social consciousness· disco-infused jazz· global rhythms exploration
Career context
Released in 1971, Push Push marked Herbie Mann's transition into blending jazz with popular styles like disco and funk. This album followed his successful collaboration with the group The Buffalo Spinners and showcased his innovative approach during a time when jazz was evolving into more accessible forms.
Stylistic neighbors
Chick Corea· Stan Getz· Weather Report

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • What’s Going On

    The lyrics shift from a personal plea to collective awakening, emphasizing unity amidst turmoil without losing the soulful essence.

Tracklist

  • 1 Push Push Start here 9:55
  • 2 What’s Going On 4:12
  • 3 Spirit in the Dark 9:25
  • 4 Man’s Hope 6:54
  • 5 If 4:29
  • 6 Never Can Say Goodbye 3:32
  • 7 What’d I Say 4:55
  • 8 Funky Nassau 4:54

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata