What makes Setting Standards by Woody Shaw notable?

This album is notable for its critical acclaim, receiving favorable reviews from jazz critics and showcasing Shaw's innovative approach to traditional standards. It further solidified his reputation as a leading figure in modern jazz during the 1980s. When Woody Shaw released 'Setting Standards' in 1984, he was at a pivotal moment in his career following his acclaimed album 'Rosewood'. This album marked a significant return to the studio after several years focusing on live performances, allowing him to experiment with new arrangements and compositions.

Who is Setting Standards for?

Setting Standards works well if you're into intricate melodies that invite exploration, warm intimacy for quiet evenings and rich harmonies for reflective moments.

How many songs are on Setting Standards?

Setting Standards has 6 tracks, running approximately 38 minutes.

Setting Standards

Woody Shaw · 1984

38 min · 6 tracks · jazz

A masterful blend of intricate melodies and rich harmonies that showcase the depth of jazz improvisation.

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Top tracks — play these first

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All the Way — This track features intricate horn arrangements and showcases Shaw's virtuosic trumpet playing, bringing a fresh interpretation to a classic standard.
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There Is No Greater Love — Shaw’s rendition transforms this well-known ballad into a vibrant exploration of melody and rhythm, highlighting his unique phrasing and emotional depth.
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What's New — The arrangement's lush textures combined with Shaw's lyrical improvisation create a captivating atmosphere, making it a standout example of his artistry.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

intricate melodies that invite exploration
warm intimacy for quiet evenings
rich harmonies for reflective moments
patient unfolding with emotional depth

Maybe skip if you

seeking upbeat party vibes
prefer short, standalone tracks

Where this album fits

Career context: When Woody Shaw released 'Setting Standards' in 1984, he was at a pivotal moment in his career following his acclaimed album 'Rosewood'. This album marked a significant return to the studio after several years focusing on live performances, allowing him to experiment with new arrangements and compositions.
Stylistic neighbors: Freddie Hubbard· Arturo Sandoval· Donald Byrd

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

All the Way

The bridge introduces an unexpected modulation that shifts the emotional tone dramatically.

This shift not only enhances the song's narrative arc but also demonstrates Shaw's ability to manipulate harmony for expressive purpose.

Tracklist

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

1 There Is No Greater Love 7:02
2 All the Way 7:54
3 Spiderman Blues 4:52
4 The Touch of Your Lips 6:47
5 What's New 7:48
6 When Love Is New 4:34

What to play next

Listen next

Woody Shaw with the Tone Jansa Quartet

1985

Go back to

In the Beginning

1983

Full Woody Shaw discography Artists like Woody Shaw

jazz

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata