Shades cover

Shades

Andrew Hill · 1987

43 min · 6 tracks · bebop · hard bop · avant-garde jazz

A complex tapestry of avant-garde structures woven with rich melodies and intricate rhythms.

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 want

  • 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 forefront of jazz after a long hiatus from recording. Following his acclaimed albums in the 1960s and 1970s, this album showcased Hill's innovative approach during a period when jazz was evolving into fusion and neo-bop styles. His unique compositional voice remained distinct, bridging traditional jazz elements with avant-garde sensibilities.
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