Pushing the World Away cover

Pushing the World Away

Kenny Garrett · 2013

72 min · 12 tracks · jazz

A vibrant blend of intricate melodies and rhythmic improvisation that showcases Garrett's virtuosity and deep jazz roots.

Top tracks — play these first

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    Hey, Chick — This track stands out for its infectious groove and playful interplay between Garrett's saxophone and the rhythm section, embodying the album's lively spirit.
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    Chucho's Mambo — This piece features vibrant Latin rhythms and showcases Garrett's ability to fuse genres seamlessly while paying homage to fellow musician Chucho Valdés.
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    Pushing the World Away — The title track offers a contemplative yet dynamic exploration of themes of perseverance and resilience, highlighted by Garrett's emotive playing.
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    I Say a Little Prayer — Garrett's interpretation of this classic transforms it into a jazz standard, illustrating his skill in reimagining familiar songs with fresh creativity.

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 showcases intricate melodies and improvisation, reflecting Garrett's jazz roots while maintaining a cohesive sound.

What we noticed

  • Several tracks incorporate call-and-response patterns between instruments, enhancing the improvisational feel typical of jazz.
Composition 25% of the score
8/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

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

  • virtuosic saxophone showcases talent
  • intricate melodies for deep focus
  • vibrant energy for social gatherings
  • dynamic rhythms that invite movement
  • captivating long-form listening experience

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer short, radio-friendly tracks
  • seek instant gratification in music

Where this album fits

Career context
In 2013, Kenny Garrett released 'Pushing the World Away' as his first album in five years, following the critically acclaimed 'Sketches of MD: Live at the Blue Note.' This record represents a significant moment in his career as he explores complex compositions and collaborations with prominent jazz musicians, enhancing his established reputation as a leading figure in contemporary jazz.
Stylistic neighbors
Chris Potter· Joshua Redman· Wayne Shorter

Tracklist

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

  • 1 A Side Order of Hijiki 3:44
  • 2 Hey, Chick 6:05
  • 3 Chucho's Mambo 7:45
  • 4 Lincoln Center 6:26
  • 5 J'ouvert (Homage to Sonny Rollins) 4:54
  • 6 That's It 4:59
  • 7 I Say a Little Prayer 4:29
  • 8 Pushing the World Away 9:12
  • 9 Homma San 4:38
  • 10 Brother Brown 5:47
  • 11 Alpha Man 8:42
  • 12 Rotation 5:25

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata