What makes Raw Materials and Residuals by Julius Hemphill notable?

'Raw Materials and Residuals' is significant for its experimental approach to jazz, influencing later generations of musicians seeking to blend diverse musical elements. The album was well-received by critics, with notable praise from publications like DownBeat, highlighting how it pushed the boundaries of traditional jazz forms. By 1977, Julius Hemphill had established himself as a prominent figure in the avant-garde jazz scene, following his earlier works like 'Dogon A.D.' in 1972. 'Raw Materials and Residuals' marks a significant exploration of Hemphill's compositional style, showcasing his innovative use of improvisation and ensemble dynamics during a period of intense creative output.

How many songs are on Raw Materials and Residuals?

Raw Materials and Residuals has 5 tracks, running approximately 35 minutes.

Raw Materials and Residuals

Julius Hemphill · 1977

35 min · 5 tracks · jazz

A vibrant fusion of Afro-Cuban rhythms and avant-garde jazz, creating an intricate tapestry of sound that challenges conventional boundaries.

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Top tracks — play these first

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C — The opening track sets the tone for the album with its complex rhythms and rich textures, making it a quintessential example of Hemphill's unique voice in jazz.
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Mirrors — This piece showcases Hemphill's ability to weave intricate melodies through collective improvisation, highlighting the interplay between individual musicians.
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Plateau — Clocking in at nearly nine minutes, this track exemplifies the album's thematic depth, utilizing extended forms to explore emotional landscapes within jazz.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

61 /100

Treeline

Higher than 71% of albums we've rated

The album's complex rhythms and unique sound blend showcase Hemphill's innovative approach to jazz.

What we noticed

The album features five tracks, each varying in length and complexity, with 'Long Rhythm' being the longest at over eight minutes.
Each track employs intricate polyrhythms that blend Afro-Cuban influences with avant-garde jazz improvisation.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
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.

Tracklist

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

1 C 6:27
2 Mirrors 7:03
3 Long Rhythm 5:00
4 Plateau 8:58
5 G Song 8:23

What to play next

Listen next

Flat-Out Jump Suite

1980

Go back to

Coon Bid'ness

1975

Full Julius Hemphill discography Artists like Julius Hemphill

Afro-Cuban jazz jazz

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata