Shades
Andrew Hill · 1987
43 min · 6 tracks · jazz
Complex harmonies intertwine with spontaneous rhythms, creating a vibrant tapestry of avant-garde jazz that challenges conventional structures.
Top tracks — play these first
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Monk's Glimpse — This track pays homage to Thelonious Monk, featuring intricate piano lines that evoke Monk's unique rhythmic sensibility while showcasing Hill's own improvisational flair.
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Tripping — With its dynamic shifts and playful melodies, this track captures the essence of Hill’s experimental approach, embodying the adventurous spirit of the album.
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La Verne — Spanning over thirteen minutes, this expansive piece allows for deep exploration of themes and motifs, highlighting both Hill’s compositional depth and the ensemble's synergy.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- wave-like pacing with surprises
- dynamic flow with climactic moments
- rich melodies for deep listening
- intricate rhythms to explore
- in-order listening for cohesion
Maybe skip if you
- prefer straightforward musical structures
- seek instant gratification tracks
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in 1987, Shades marked Andrew Hill's return to the recording scene after a significant hiatus since his last album in 1975. At this point in his career, Hill was rediscovering and expanding his artistic voice, blending influences from his earlier work while incorporating modern jazz elements.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Eric Dolphy· Cecil Taylor· Ornette Coleman
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Monk's Glimpse 4:36
- 2 Tripping 6:31
- 3 Chilly Mac 5:29
- 4 Ball Square 5:34
- 5 Domani 7:28
- 6 La Verne 13:43
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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