Released 70 years ago
Sonny Rollins with the Modern Jazz Quartet
Sonny Rollins · 1956
36 min · 13 tracks · jazz
A vibrant blend of post-bop improvisation and classical elegance, featuring intricate interplay between saxophone and piano.
Top tracks — play these first
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The Stopper Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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In a Sentimental Mood — Rollins’ interpretation of this classic features lush harmonies and a gentle, flowing melody that highlights both his lyrical playing and the Modern Jazz Quartet's sophisticated arrangements.
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No Moe — This track stands out for its playful energy and intricate call-and-response between the saxophone and piano, exemplifying Rollins’ dynamic interaction with the quartet.
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Newk’s Fadeaway — A showcase of Rollins’ ability to weave complex improvisations over a swinging groove, this track encapsulates the essence of his artistry during this period.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalThe album blends jazz improvisation with classical influences, showcasing strong compositions and skilled performances.
What we noticed
- The album features a consistent interplay between the saxophone and piano, with each instrument taking turns to lead and respond throughout the tracks.
- Several tracks, such as 'In a Sentimental Mood' and 'Time on My Hands', showcase extended improvisational sections that highlight the musicians' technical skills.
- The arrangement of pieces often incorporates classical elements, with structured melodies contrasted by free-form improvisation.
- Composition 25% of the score
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8/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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7/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- short, immersive listening sessions
- dynamic emotional journeys
- atmospheric background focus
- gentle contemplative moods
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Breakthrough — This album contributed to Rollins' reputation in post-bop jazz and showcased his innovative style.
- Themes
- post-bop innovation· New York jazz scene· emotional improvisation
- Career context
- By 1956, Sonny Rollins was already an established figure in jazz, following his acclaimed album 'The Bridge' released in 1962. This collaboration with the Modern Jazz Quartet showcases his transition into more complex arrangements and ensemble playing, while still highlighting his signature improvisational style. The album marked a significant moment in Rollins' career as he experimented with integrating classical elements into jazz.
- Stylistic neighbors
- John Coltrane· Ornette Coleman· Wayne Shorter
Tracklist
- 1 The Stopper Start here 2:55
- 2 Almost Like Being in Love 3:22
- 3 No Moe 3:28
- 4 In a Sentimental Mood 3:17
- 5 Scoops 2:12
- 6 With a Song in My Heart 3:05
- 7 Newk’s Fadeaway 3:09
- 8 Time on My Hands 2:39
- 9 This Love of Mine 2:23
- 10 Shadrack 2:31
- 11 On a Slow Boat to China 2:38
- 12 Mambo Bounce 2:21
- 13 I Know 2:30
If this landed
Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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