Songs for Quintet
Kenny Wheeler · 2015
52 min · 9 tracks · jazz
A delicate interplay of avant-garde textures and intricate melodies unfolds, blending jazz tradition with contemporary chamber influences.
Top tracks — play these first
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Seventy‐Six — The opening track introduces the album's blend of lyrical themes and complex harmonies, setting an introspective tone that resonates throughout the project.
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Jigsaw — This track stands out with its playful yet intricate structure, showcasing the quintet’s ability to navigate shifting time signatures while maintaining cohesion.
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Pretty Liddle Waltz — Capturing a whimsical yet poignant essence, this piece highlights Wheeler's lyrical trumpet work intertwined with rich ensemble textures.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalThe album blends intricate melodies with avant-garde textures, showcasing Wheeler's innovative approach to jazz.
What we noticed
- Each track showcases a different combination of instruments, allowing for varied textures and dynamics throughout the record.
- Several pieces incorporate extended techniques, such as breath sounds and harmonics, which contribute to its avant-garde character.
- Composition 25% of the score
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8/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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7/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Little footprint beyond its audience. 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
- ethereal melodies for quiet moments
- intricate harmonies for attentive listening
- explorative soundscapes with patience
- rich textures for reflective moods
Maybe skip if you
- seeking instant gratification
- prefer straightforward song structures
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in 2015, 'Songs for Quintet' is part of Kenny Wheeler's late-career output, following his earlier acclaimed works. At this point, Wheeler was celebrated for his contributions to jazz and was recognized as a significant figure in the avant-garde scene. This album showcases his continued evolution as a composer and musician, particularly within small ensemble settings.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Dave Holland· John Abercrombie· Evan Parker
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Seventy‐Six 4:58
- 2 Jigsaw 8:43
- 3 The Long Waiting 5:09
- 4 Canter No.1 6:40
- 5 Sly Eyes 6:07
- 6 1076 2:39
- 7 Old Time 6:11
- 8 Pretty Liddle Waltz 6:49
- 9 Nonetheless 4:54
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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