Romaria (album)
Andy Sheppard · 2018
50 min · 8 tracks · jazz
A lush tapestry of improvisational jazz, blending evocative melodies with intricate rhythms and rich textures.
Top tracks — play these first
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Romaria — The title track encapsulates the album's essence, weaving together lyrical saxophone lines with a rhythmic foundation that echoes Brazilian influences.
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And a Day… — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its expansive soundscape, inviting listeners into Sheppard's reflective musical journey.
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With Every Flower That Falls — This piece highlights Sheppard's lyrical prowess on the saxophone, balancing melancholy melodies with vibrant percussive elements that create a haunting atmosphere.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalThe album blends intricate jazz improvisation with Brazilian influences, showcasing strong craftsmanship and distinctiveness.
What we noticed
- The album features a consistent use of layered saxophone melodies that intertwine with rhythmic percussion throughout its duration.
- Each track varies in tempo, with some pieces maintaining a steady groove while others explore more free-form improvisation.
- The title track 'Romaria' introduces Brazilian musical elements, incorporating syncopated rhythms and melodic motifs characteristic of bossa nova.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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
- expansive improvisation for deep listening
- patient melodies that unfold gradually
- rich textures for reflective moments
- for late-night contemplation
Maybe skip if you
- seeking quick, upbeat tracks
- prefer straightforward, structured songs
Where this album fits
- Career context
- At the time of 'Romaria's' release in 2018, Andy Sheppard was an established figure in the jazz scene, known for his unique saxophone style and previous works like 'Surrounded by Sea' (2015). This album marked a continuation of his exploration into world music influences and collaboration with diverse musicians, solidifying his distinct voice within contemporary jazz.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Jan Garbarek· Tord Gustavsen· Nils Frahm
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 And a Day… 8:06
- 2 Thirteen 4:48
- 3 Romaria 5:11
- 4 Pop 4:21
- 5 They Came From the North 8:06
- 6 With Every Flower That Falls 5:53
- 7 All Becomes Again 7:07
- 8 Forever… 6:42
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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