Round Midnight cover

Round Midnight

Herbie Hancock · 1986

51 min · 11 tracks · classical · funk · jazz fusion

A sophisticated blend of jazz standards and original compositions that showcases emotive melodies and intricate improvisation.

Why this album works

Best for
steady exploration of intricate melodies evening relaxation with sophisticated sounds thoughtful immersion into emotive themes
Context
By the time 'Round Midnight' was released in 1986, Herbie Hancock had already established himself as a leading figure in jazz, particularly after his influential work in the 1970s with albums like 'Head Hunters'. This album came during a phase of artistic exploration, following his successful foray into electronic music and fusion, showcasing a return to more traditional jazz forms while still incorporating modern elements.
If you like
classical, funk, jazz fusion

Round Midnight is an album by Herbie Hancock, released in 1986. A sophisticated blend of jazz standards and original compositions that showcases emotive melodies and intricate improvisation. 'Round Midnight' is notable for its critical acclaim, earning a Grammy Award for Best Jazz Instrumental Performance. The album also played a significant role in revitalizing interest in jazz standards during the mid-1980s, bridging generational gaps in musical tastes and influencing contemporary jazz artists. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Round Midnight sound like?

A sophisticated blend of jazz standards and original compositions that showcases emotive melodies and intricate improvisation. Rooted in classical and funk.

What makes Round Midnight by Herbie Hancock notable?

'Round Midnight' is notable for its critical acclaim, earning a Grammy Award for Best Jazz Instrumental Performance. The album also played a significant role in revitalizing interest in jazz standards during the mid-1980s, bridging generational gaps in musical tastes and influencing contemporary jazz artists. By the time 'Round Midnight' was released in 1986, Herbie Hancock had already established himself as a leading figure in jazz, particularly after his influential work in the 1970s with albums like 'Head Hunters'. This album came during a phase of artistic exploration, following his successful foray into electronic music and fusion, showcasing a return to more traditional jazz forms while still incorporating modern elements.

Who is Round Midnight for?

Round Midnight works well if you're into steady exploration of intricate melodies, evening relaxation with sophisticated sounds and thoughtful immersion into emotive themes.

How many songs are on Round Midnight?

Round Midnight has 11 tracks, running approximately 51 minutes.

Tracklist

11 tracks·51:19

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

  • 1 Round Midnight Standout 5:36
  • 2 Body and Soul Standout 5:54
  • 3 Bérangère’s Nightmare 3:06
  • 4 Fair Weather 6:05
  • 5 Una noche con Francis 4:23
  • 6 The Peacocks 7:16
  • 7 How Long Has This Been Going On? 3:13
  • 8 Rhythm‐a‐ning 4:11
  • 9 Still Time 3:51
  • 10 Minuit aux Champs‐Élysées 3:25
  • 11 Chan’s Song (Never Said) Standout 4:14

Release Date

January 1, 1986

Genre

funk, jazz fusion

More albums in funk

Artist Origin

United States

Runtime

51 min 19 sec