Released 10 years ago
Second Impression
Eric Alexander · 2016
54 min · 9 tracks · jazz
A vibrant tapestry of post-bop jazz intertwining intricate melodies with rich harmonies and expressive improvisation.
Top tracks — play these first
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Second Impression — The title track showcases Alexander's ability to blend melodic richness with dynamic improvisation, setting the tone for the album’s exploration of jazz nuances.
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So Many Stars — This piece stands out with its lush arrangement and heartfelt delivery, highlighting both Alexander's technical prowess and emotional depth.
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Everything Happens to Me — The interpretation of this classic ballad reveals Alexander's sensitivity as a performer, transforming a well-known standard into a deeply personal statement.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalThe album showcases strong melodies and skilled improvisation, creating a cohesive and engaging jazz experience.
What we noticed
- The album features a consistent use of intricate melodies that are often developed through call-and-response between the saxophone and piano.
- Each track maintains a mid to up-tempo pace, with only one track, 'Everything Happens to Me', slowing down significantly to create contrast.
- Improvisation is a key element, with extended solos that showcase the musicians' technical skills and emotional expression throughout the record.
- 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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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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8/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Little footprint beyond its audience. 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
- infectious groove for dancing
- rich harmonies that engage
- vibrant exploration of melodies
- ideal for evening gatherings
Maybe skip if you
- prefer instant gratification tracks
- dislike intricate musical layers
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in 2016, Second Impression marks Eric Alexander's return to the forefront of the jazz scene, following his acclaimed album, It's All in the Game (2014). At this point in his career, Alexander had established himself as a prominent tenor saxophonist known for his lyrical playing style and dedication to the jazz tradition.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Joshua Redman· Joe Lovano· Chris Potter
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Everything Happens to Me
In the bridge, a shift occurs where the narrative voice reflects on moments of vulnerability and longing amidst a backdrop of jazzy lament.
This moment deepens the emotional weight of the song by contrasting earlier lightness with introspective melancholy, enhancing its overall impact.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Second Impression 6:20
- 2 So Many Stars 5:43
- 3 Blues for Mo 5:17
- 4 Jennie’s Dance 5:54
- 5 Secret Love 7:31
- 6 T-Bone Steak 6:06
- 7 Frenzy 6:00
- 8 Everything Happens to Me 6:34
- 9 Full House 5:21
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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