What makes Solid by Woody Shaw notable?

Solid received critical acclaim for its intricate arrangements and virtuosic performances, particularly highlighting Shaw's unique approach to jazz. The album is often noted for its influence on contemporary jazz musicians who sought to blend traditional elements with modern sensibilities. Released in 1987, Solid marked Woody Shaw's return to the studio after a five-year hiatus, following his acclaimed album Rosewood. This album showcases Shaw's maturation as a trumpeter and composer during a period when he was exploring new musical ideas and collaborations.

Solid works well if you're into energetic improvisation with lush harmonies, for reflective afternoon listening and playful twists in familiar tunes.

How many songs are on Solid?

Solid has 6 tracks, running approximately 39 minutes.

Solid

Woody Shaw · 1987

39 min · 6 tracks · jazz

Lush harmonies intertwine with energetic improvisation, showcasing the innovative spirit of jazz's transformative era in the late 1980s.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Solid — The title track features a captivating interplay between Shaw’s trumpet and the ensemble, epitomizing his innovative compositional style while maintaining a groove that invites improvisation.
→
There Will Never Be Another You — This rendition highlights Shaw's lyrical trumpet playing, transforming a classic standard into a fresh exploration filled with emotional depth and technical prowess.
→
It Might as Well Be Spring — Shaw's interpretation brings out rich harmonic textures and subtle dynamics, showcasing not just his trumpet skills but also his ability to convey complex emotions through music.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

energetic improvisation with lush harmonies
for reflective afternoon listening
playful twists in familiar tunes
captivating solos that invite attention

Maybe skip if you

prefer straightforward, immediate tracks
seek fast-paced, high-energy experiences

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1987, Solid marked Woody Shaw's return to the studio after a five-year hiatus, following his acclaimed album Rosewood. This album showcases Shaw's maturation as a trumpeter and composer during a period when he was exploring new musical ideas and collaborations.
Stylistic neighbors: Freddie Hubbard· Arturo Sandoval· Donald Byrd

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

There Will Never Be Another You

A poignant moment occurs when the arrangement shifts from a lively tempo to a more reflective pace, allowing the melodies to breathe.

This transition emphasizes the song's theme of longing, creating an emotional contrast that enhances the listener's connection to the performance.

Tracklist

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

1 There Will Never Be Another You 6:58
2 You Stepped Out of a Dream 5:32
3 Speak Low 8:58
4 Solid 4:41
5 It Might as Well Be Spring 10:06
6 The Woody Woodpecker Song 3:40

What to play next

Listen next

Imagination

1988

Go back to

Woody Shaw with the Tone Jansa Quartet

1985

Full Woody Shaw discography Artists like Woody Shaw

jazz

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata