What makes Really Big! by Jimmy Heath notable?

The album is noted for its sophisticated arrangements and has since become a staple within the jazz repertoire, influencing later generations of musicians. It received critical acclaim upon release, contributing to Heath's recognition in the jazz scene during a time when hard bop was evolving. When 'Really Big!' was released in 1960, Jimmy Heath was establishing himself as a significant figure in jazz after his earlier work with the Heath Brothers. This album followed his participation in the influential 'The Jazz Workshop' and showcased his growing reputation as a composer and arranger.

Who is Really Big! for?

Really Big! works well if you're into dynamic improvisations that energize, for social gatherings and intricate melodies to appreciate.

How many songs are on Really Big!?

Really Big! has 8 tracks, running approximately 36 minutes.

Really Big!

Jimmy Heath · 1960

36 min · 8 tracks · jazz

A vibrant blend of hard bop and cool jazz, filled with intricate melodies and tight ensemble playing.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Big "P" — Opening with energetic brass harmonies, this track sets the tone for the album's lively spirit while highlighting Heath's compositional prowess.
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Dat Dere — This rendition features playful interactions between instruments, showcasing how Heath integrates traditional jazz elements with innovative rhythms.
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The Picture of Heath — Serving as a tribute to Heath himself, this track combines lyrical melodies with complex chord progressions that exemplify his unique style.

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 strong arrangements, making it a notable entry in jazz.

What we noticed

Each track maintains a distinct tempo and mood, with several pieces shifting from upbeat to more reflective sections.
The arrangements include varied instrumentation, with moments of solo improvisation that highlight individual musicians within the group.

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: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

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

dynamic improvisations that energize
for social gatherings
intricate melodies to appreciate
playful arrangements for enjoyment

Maybe skip if you

seekers of instant gratification
prefer minimalist soundscapes

Where this album fits

Career context: When 'Really Big!' was released in 1960, Jimmy Heath was establishing himself as a significant figure in jazz after his earlier work with the Heath Brothers. This album followed his participation in the influential 'The Jazz Workshop' and showcased his growing reputation as a composer and arranger.
Stylistic neighbors: Wayne Shorter· McCoy Tyner· Joe Henderson

Tracklist

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

1 Big "P" 3:57
2 Old Fashioned Fun 4:37
3 Mona's Mood 4:55
4 Dat Dere 4:31
5 Nails 4:50
6 On Green Dolphin Street 4:46
7 My Ideal 4:13
8 The Picture of Heath 4:31

What to play next

Listen next

The Quota

1961

Go back to

The Thumper

1959

Full Jimmy Heath discography Artists like Jimmy Heath

jazz

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata