What makes Smile by Jacky Terrasson notable?

Smile received critical acclaim upon release, showcasing Terrasson's virtuosic piano skills and fresh interpretations of classic tunes. The album's unique arrangements contributed to its recognition within the jazz community, solidifying Terrasson's reputation and influencing a new generation of jazz musicians. Released in 2002, Smile was Jacky Terrasson's fourth album and marked a significant moment in his career following the acclaimed release of Paradis in 1999. At this point, Terrasson was establishing himself as a prominent figure in contemporary jazz, blending traditional bebop influences with modern sensibilities.

Smile works well if you're into playful improvisation throughout tracks, vibrant melodies for uplifting moments and gentle sways for relaxation.

How many songs are on Smile?

Smile has 10 tracks, running approximately 47 minutes.

Smile

Jacky Terrasson · 2002

47 min · 10 tracks · jazz

A vibrant celebration of jazz standards infused with playful improvisation and rich melodic textures.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Smile — The title track stands out for its lyrical interpretation and the way it reimagines a well-known standard with a fresh, lively approach.
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Mo' Better Blues — This track reflects Terrasson's ability to blend rhythm and melody seamlessly while paying homage to the legacy of jazz greats.
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Autumn Leaves — Terrasson's rendition offers a deeply contemplative take on this classic, highlighting his emotive playing style and innovative phrasing.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

73 /100

Alpine

Higher than 96% of albums we've rated

Terrasson's vibrant interpretations and improvisational flair make this album stand out in contemporary jazz.

What we noticed

The album opens with a lively rendition of 'Parisian Thoroughfare', setting a brisk tempo that is maintained through the first half.
Each track features intricate piano solos that showcase Terrasson's improvisational skills, often diverging from the original melodies.
The final track, '59', concludes with a gradual deceleration in tempo, creating a reflective atmosphere that contrasts with earlier pieces.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 9/10
Durability 25% of the score: 7/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 3/10

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

playful improvisation throughout tracks
vibrant melodies for uplifting moments
gentle sways for relaxation
celebratory tunes for gatherings

Maybe skip if you

prefer fast-paced, aggressive sounds
want straightforward, predictable structures

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 2002, Smile was Jacky Terrasson's fourth album and marked a significant moment in his career following the acclaimed release of Paradis in 1999. At this point, Terrasson was establishing himself as a prominent figure in contemporary jazz, blending traditional bebop influences with modern sensibilities.
Stylistic neighbors: Brad Mehldau· Chick Corea· Herbie Hancock

Tracklist

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

1 Parisian Thoroughfare 5:09
2 Mo' Better Blues 2:39
3 Smile 6:55
4 Sous le ciel de Paris 4:05
5 Isn't She Lovely 3:04
6 The Dolphin 6:06
7 Nardis 5:45
8 Autumn Leaves 3:32
9 My Funny Valentine 3:16
10 59 6:42

What to play next

Listen next

Into the Blue

2003

Go back to

A Paris...

2001

Full Jacky Terrasson discography Artists like Jacky Terrasson

bebop

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata