Is Something's Coming! a good place to start with Gary Burton?

Yes, Something's Coming! is recommended as a starting point for new Gary Burton listeners. A vibrant blend of intricate vibraphone melodies and rich harmonic textures that redefine jazz standards. When 'Something's Coming!' was released in January 1964, Gary Burton was establishing himself as a prominent vibraphonist in the jazz scene, following his debut album 'The Groovy Sound of Gary Burton' from 1961. This sophomore effort showcased his innovative approach to improvisation and ensemble playing, solidifying his reputation among contemporaries.

Who is Something's Coming! for?

Something's Coming! works well if you're into steady pacing with melodic sophistication, gradual build to satisfying resolution and immersive vibes for focused listening.

How many songs are on Something's Coming!?

Something's Coming! has 7 tracks, running approximately 35 minutes.

Something's Coming!

Gary Burton · 1964

35 min · 7 tracks · jazz

A vibrant blend of intricate vibraphone melodies and rich harmonic textures that redefine jazz standards.

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Top tracks — play these first

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On Green Dolphin Street Start here — This track exemplifies Burton's ability to blend traditional jazz elements with a fresh, melodic interpretation that draws listeners in. The interplay between the vibraphone and piano creates a dynamic yet soothing atmosphere.
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Six Improvisatory Sketches — As a centerpiece of the album, this suite showcases Burton's skill in spontaneous composition and improvisation, reflecting a more avant-garde approach within a conventional framework.
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Summertime — Burton's rendition of this classic brings new life to an often-covered standard, highlighting his distinctive phrasing and rhythmic nuances that set him apart from other interpretations.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

Burton's vibraphone work is intricate and engaging, though the album's cohesion is somewhat uneven.

What we noticed

The album features intricate vibraphone melodies that often lead the arrangements, supported by a rhythm section that maintains a steady pulse.
Each track varies in length, with 'Six Improvisatory Sketches' acting as an interlude that showcases spontaneous creativity and contrasts with the more structured pieces.
The harmonic textures are rich, utilizing complex chord progressions that challenge traditional jazz forms while remaining accessible.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

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

steady pacing with melodic sophistication
gradual build to satisfying resolution
immersive vibes for focused listening
thoughtful improvisation and exploration

Maybe skip if you

seeking instant gratification
prefer standalone track variety

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This album helped establish Burton's reputation in the jazz scene.
Themes: melodic exploration· jazz improvisation· 1960s jazz evolution
Career context: When 'Something's Coming!' was released in January 1964, Gary Burton was establishing himself as a prominent vibraphonist in the jazz scene, following his debut album 'The Groovy Sound of Gary Burton' from 1961. This sophomore effort showcased his innovative approach to improvisation and ensemble playing, solidifying his reputation among contemporaries.
Stylistic neighbors: Chick Corea· Pat Metheny· Herbie Hancock