What makes Recording N.Y.C. 1986 by David Murray notable?

Recording N.Y.C. 1986 is notable for its ambitious blend of jazz styles and has been recognized for pushing the boundaries of improvisation in jazz music. The album received critical acclaim, solidifying Murray's reputation and influencing subsequent generations of jazz musicians seeking to explore global sounds within their work. Released in 1986, Recording N.Y.C. 1986 marks David Murray's emergence as a significant voice in the modern jazz scene following his acclaimed album Flowers for Albert. At this point, he had already established himself through collaborations with renowned artists, positioning him as a leader of the avant-garde movement.

Who is Recording N.Y.C. 1986 for?

Recording N.Y.C. 1986 works well if you're into spontaneous live energy bursts, gradual build to emotional climax and reflective moments of improvisation.

How many songs are on Recording N.Y.C. 1986?

Recording N.Y.C. 1986 has 6 tracks, running approximately 52 minutes.

Released 40 years ago

Recording N.Y.C. 1986

David Murray · 1986

52 min · 6 tracks · jazz

A vibrant fusion of avant-garde jazz and world rhythms, overflowing with improvisational zeal and emotive depth.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Kareem — This track showcases Murray's signature tenor saxophone style, combining intricate melodies with rhythmic complexity that draws listeners into its dynamic interplay.
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According to Webster — The extended format allows for deep explorations of sound and theme, demonstrating the group's improvisational prowess and commitment to sonic experimentation.
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Light Years — As the longest piece on the album, it serves as a meditative journey that highlights the emotional range and technical skill of Murray and his ensemble.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong improvisation and unique rhythmic structures, marking a notable entry in modern jazz.

What we noticed

The album features extended improvisational sections, with each track averaging over six minutes, allowing for deep exploration of themes.
Murray's saxophone leads are often accompanied by complex rhythms from the percussion section, creating a dynamic interplay throughout the record.

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: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

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

spontaneous live energy bursts
gradual build to emotional climax
reflective moments of improvisation
engaging late-night listening experience

Maybe skip if you

seekers of instant gratification
prefer structured, predictable formats

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This album solidified David Murray's reputation in the modern jazz scene.
Career context: Released in 1986, Recording N.Y.C. 1986 marks David Murray's emergence as a significant voice in the modern jazz scene following his acclaimed album Flowers for Albert. At this point, he had already established himself through collaborations with renowned artists, positioning him as a leader of the avant-garde movement.
Stylistic neighbors: Henry Threadgill· Ornette Coleman· Charles Lloyd