Quiet cover

Released 30 years ago

Quiet

John Scofield · 1996

51 min · 9 tracks · jazz

A contemplative blend of jazz fusion, featuring intricate guitar work and a soothing, melodic undercurrent throughout.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    After the Fact Start here — Opening with a smooth, flowing melody, this track sets the tone for the entire album, highlighting Scofield's lyrical guitar style.
  • →
    But for Love — This piece features a rich interplay between Scofield's guitar and the accompanying instruments, showcasing emotional depth and technical skill.
  • →
    Away With Words — The track stands out with its evocative melodies and complex rhythms that exemplify Scofield's ability to blend simplicity with sophistication.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental
63 /100
Treeline
Higher than 74% of albums we've rated

Scofield's 'Quiet' showcases intricate guitar work within a cohesive, melodic framework, appealing for both casual and attentive listening.

What we noticed

  • The album features a consistent use of soft, clean guitar tones that dominate the melodic lines across all tracks.
  • Each track maintains a slow to mid-tempo pace, with no abrupt changes in dynamics or tempo throughout the record.
  • The arrangements often include subtle layers of keyboard and bass that complement the guitar without overshadowing it.
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
8/10

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

  • steady mid-tempo reflective moments
  • intricate guitar work appreciation
  • meditative background for creativity
  • thoughtful listening during solitude

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking high-energy excitement
  • prefer short, standalone tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Critical Peak — Showcases innovative jazz fusion, marking a high point in Scofield's artistic evolution.
Career context
By the time 'Quiet' was released in 1996, John Scofield had established himself as a prominent figure in jazz. This album followed his acclaimed work on 'Grace Under Pressure' and showcased his evolution into more introspective and melodic compositions, reflecting a shift towards a quieter, more intimate sound.
Stylistic neighbors
Pat Metheny· Mike Stern· Bill Frisell

Tracklist

  • 1 After the Fact Start here 5:28
  • 2 Tulle 5:03
  • 3 Away With Words 6:52
  • 4 Hold That Thought 6:26
  • 5 Door #3 5:50
  • 6 Bedside Manner 6:51
  • 7 Rolf and the Gang 5:25
  • 8 But for Love 5:40
  • 9 Away 3:33

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata