What makes Son of Word Jazz by Ken Nordine notable?

Son of Word Jazz received critical acclaim for its inventive approach, influencing the development of spoken word music and performance art. The album's blend of narrative and sound helped popularize the genre, paving the way for future artists exploring similar themes. Released in 1958, Son of Word Jazz is Ken Nordine's second album, following the influential Word Jazz from 1957. At this point in his career, Nordine was establishing himself as a pioneer in the spoken word genre, blending poetry with jazz improvisation to create an innovative listening experience.

How many songs are on Son of Word Jazz?

Son of Word Jazz has 12 tracks, running approximately 33 minutes.

Son of Word Jazz

Ken Nordine · 1958

33 min · 12 tracks

A whimsical fusion of spoken word and jazzy soundscapes that captures the surreal essence of mid-century America.

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Top tracks — play these first

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The Smith Family — This track introduces listeners to Nordine's unique storytelling style, painting a vivid picture of an eccentric family through playful language and rhythmic delivery.
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Outer Space — In this piece, Nordine creatively explores cosmic themes with a sense of wonder and humor, showcasing his ability to merge abstract concepts with engaging narratives.
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I Used to Think My Right Hand Was Uglier Than My Left — This track exemplifies Nordine's whimsical take on self-perception and identity, using clever phrasing to delve into personal insecurities while maintaining a light-hearted tone.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

63 /100

Treeline

Higher than 74% of albums we've rated

Nordine's unique blend of spoken word and jazz creates a distinctive sound that stands out in its genre.

What we noticed

Each track features a distinct narrative, with Nordine's voice weaving through various jazzy instrumental backdrops that shift in mood and tempo.
The album includes several tracks that utilize unconventional sound effects and spoken word techniques, creating a surreal auditory experience.
Tracks often blend humor and introspection, with some segments featuring abrupt transitions that enhance the whimsical nature of the content.

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: 9/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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.

Tracklist

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

1 The Smith Family 1:59
2 Miss Cone 2:43
3 Outer Space 3:37
4 Down the Drain 3:12
5 Secretary 3:01
6 Bubble Gum 2:36
7 Looking at Numbers 2:21
8 Anytime, Anytime 2:20
9 I Used to Think My Right Hand Was Uglier Than My Left 2:15
10 Lemming 2:18
11 The Bullfighter 2:50
12 Junk Man 4:35

What to play next

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Next!

1959

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Love Words

1958

Full Ken Nordine discography Artists like Ken Nordine

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata