Shimri cover

Shimri

Arild Andersen · 1977

41 min · 6 tracks · jazz

A serene blend of atmospheric jazz textures and melodic improvisations that evoke a contemplative Norwegian landscape.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Shimri — The title track serves as an exquisite introduction to the album's themes, featuring intricate bass lines that set the tone for the entire record.
  • →
    No Tears — This track stands out with its extended improvisation and emotional depth, allowing Andersen's expressive playing to shine through over a captivating harmonic backdrop.
  • →
    Dedication — As the longest piece on the album, this track showcases complex arrangements and dynamic shifts, highlighting Andersen's compositional prowess and ability to create immersive soundscapes.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

Instrumental
59 /100
Treeline
Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong improvisational skills and a cohesive atmosphere but remains somewhat conventional within its genre.

What we noticed

  • The album features extended improvisations, with each track averaging around six minutes, allowing for deep exploration of themes.
  • Melodic lines are often introduced by the bass and then developed through interplay with the piano and saxophone, creating a conversational dynamic.
  • The use of space and silence is prominent, particularly in tracks like 'Wood Song', which enhances the atmospheric quality of the music.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. 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

  • contemplative afternoon listening
  • intricate improvisations rewarding focus
  • fluid melodies inviting reflection
  • long-form pieces for deep engagement

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking instant gratification
  • prefer short, standalone tracks

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 1977, 'Shimri' was Arild Andersen's third album, following the critically acclaimed 'Green Shading Into Blue'. At this point in his career, Andersen was establishing himself as a prominent figure in the European jazz scene, known for his innovative approach to bass playing and composition. This album marked a significant evolution in his sound, incorporating more lyrical elements and reflective themes.
Stylistic neighbors
Eberhard Weber· Jan Garbarek· Bill Evans

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Shimri 5:55
  • 2 No Tears 9:27
  • 3 Ways of Days 4:47
  • 4 Wood Song 6:02
  • 5 Vaggvisa För Hanna 3:46
  • 6 Dedication 11:43

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata