What makes Quartet (London) 1985 by Anthony Braxton notable?

This album is significant not only for its experimental approach but also for representing a critical moment in Braxton's career as an improviser and composer. It has been influential in the avant-garde jazz scene, often noted in discussions about the integration of structured composition with free improvisation, although it did not achieve mainstream chart success. When 'Quartet (London) 1985' was released in 1988, Anthony Braxton was already an established figure in avant-garde jazz, known for his innovative approaches. This album followed his prolific output in the 1980s, including works that expanded the boundaries of jazz through complex structures and collaborative performances.

How many songs are on Quartet (London) 1985?

Quartet (London) 1985 has 2 tracks, running approximately 121 minutes.

Quartet (London) 1985

Anthony Braxton · 1988

121 min · 2 tracks · jazz

A sprawling exploration of avant-garde jazz, blending intricate compositions with improvisational freedom and textural depth.

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Top tracks — play these first

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First Set: Composition 122(+108A)/Composition 40(O)/Collage Form Structure/Composition 52/Composition 86(+32 +96)/Piano Solo from Composition 30 — This lengthy track encapsulates Braxton's unique blend of structured and free improvisation, showcasing his ability to weave complex compositions together seamlessly while allowing space for spontaneous creation.
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Second Set: Composition 115/Composition 105A/Percussion Solo from Composition 96/Composition 40F/Composition 121/Composition 116 — The second set emphasizes rhythmic experimentation and incorporates a percussion solo that highlights the ensemble's dynamic range and Braxton's deep understanding of texture and sound.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

64 /100

Treeline

Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album showcases intricate compositions and improvisation, marking a significant moment in avant-garde jazz.

What we noticed

The album consists of two lengthy sets, each featuring a series of compositions interspersed with improvisational solos.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 9/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

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.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Experimental — Represents a significant departure in Braxton's avant-garde approach.
Themes: London jazz scene· avant-garde experimentation· textural soundscapes
Career context: When 'Quartet (London) 1985' was released in 1988, Anthony Braxton was already an established figure in avant-garde jazz, known for his innovative approaches. This album followed his prolific output in the 1980s, including works that expanded the boundaries of jazz through complex structures and collaborative performances.
Stylistic neighbors: Ornette Coleman· Sun Ra· Henry Threadgill

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Tracklist

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

Disc 1

1 First Set: Composition 122(+108A)/Composition 40(O)/Collage Form Structure/Composition 52/Composition 86(+32 +96)/Piano Solo from Composition 30 56:17