What makes Root of Things by Matthew Shipp notable?

'Root of Things' received positive reviews for its bold approach to contemporary jazz, and it contributed to Shipp's reputation as a leading voice in the genre. The album showcases his unique blend of improvisation and structure, influencing both listeners and upcoming artists within the avant-garde jazz scene. When 'Root of Things' was released in January 2014, Matthew Shipp was already an established figure in avant-garde jazz, known for his innovative compositions and collaborations. This album marked his continued evolution as a solo artist, following a prolific output that included numerous albums and collaborations throughout the 2000s and early 2010s.

Who is Root of Things for?

Root of Things works well if you're into meditative explorations of sound, rhythmic complexity invites deep focus and immersive listening in quiet spaces.

How many songs are on Root of Things?

Root of Things has 6 tracks, running approximately 43 minutes.

Root of Things

Matthew Shipp · 2014

43 min · 6 tracks · jazz

A dynamic exploration of free jazz, blending intricate piano phrases with unpredictable rhythmic structures.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Root of Things — The title track sets the tone for the album with its intricate piano lines and exploratory spirit, encapsulating Shipp's innovative approach to jazz.
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Jazz It — 'Jazz It' exemplifies Shipp's ability to merge complex rhythms with melodic improvisation, creating a vibrant interplay that defines the album's character.
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Pulse Code — This track features pulsating motifs and shifting dynamics that highlight Shipp's skill at weaving tension and release within his compositions.

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 showcases innovative piano work within free jazz, balancing structure and improvisation effectively.

What we noticed

The album features six tracks, each varying in length and complexity, with the shortest track at just over four minutes and the longest approaching ten.
Piano phrases often shift abruptly between intricate melodic lines and dissonant clusters, creating a sense of unpredictability.
Rhythmic structures are frequently deconstructed, with sections that alternate between free time and more structured grooves.

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: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 3/10

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

meditative explorations of sound
rhythmic complexity invites deep focus
immersive listening in quiet spaces
patient unfolding of musical ideas

Maybe skip if you

prefer predictable song structures
seek immediate, catchy satisfaction

Where this album fits

Career context: When 'Root of Things' was released in January 2014, Matthew Shipp was already an established figure in avant-garde jazz, known for his innovative compositions and collaborations. This album marked his continued evolution as a solo artist, following a prolific output that included numerous albums and collaborations throughout the 2000s and early 2010s.
Stylistic neighbors: William Hooker· Sun Ra· Cecil Taylor