Is Round Midnight a good place to start with Herbie Hancock?

Yes, Round Midnight is recommended as a starting point for new Herbie Hancock listeners. A sophisticated blend of jazz standards and original compositions that showcases emotive melodies and intricate improvisation. 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.

Released 40 years ago

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.

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Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady exploration of intricate melodies
evening relaxation with sophisticated sounds
thoughtful immersion into emotive themes
background warmth for quiet moments

Maybe skip if you want

seeking high-energy, fast-paced tracks
prefer standalone singles over cohesion

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Critical Peak — Showcases Hancock's artistry and revitalizes interest in jazz standards.
Themes: late-night jazz clubs· piano-led introspection· modern jazz standards
Career 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.
Stylistic neighbors: Chick Corea· Weather Report· Miles Davis
If this clicks, go next to: Perfect Machine — Continues the exploration of sophisticated jazz with a modern twist.
Sounds like this from elsewhere: Now He Sings, Now He Sobs by Chick Corea — Similar blend of emotive piano-led improvisation and intricate jazz melodies.