What makes Spark by Hiromi Uehara notable?

Spark received critical acclaim for its ambitious compositions and technical proficiency, further solidifying Hiromi's status within the contemporary jazz scene. The album was highlighted in several prominent reviews and contributed to her winning the prestigious Jazz Journalists Association's Pianist of the Year award shortly after its release. Upon releasing Spark in February 2016, Hiromi Uehara had already established herself as a formidable force in the jazz world, following her acclaimed album Alive from 2014. This album marked a continuation of her exploration into avant-garde jazz and showcased her growth as both a pianist and composer.

Spark works well if you're into steady mid-tempo exploration, virtuosic improvisation appreciation and immersive in-order listening.

How many songs are on Spark?

Spark has 9 tracks, running approximately 72 minutes.

Released 10 years ago

Spark

Hiromi Uehara · 2016

72 min · 9 tracks · jazz

An exhilarating mix of intricate melodies and rhythmic complexity that showcases the depth of contemporary jazz innovation.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Spark — The title track features a dynamic interplay between complex rhythms and improvisation, encapsulating the album's energetic spirit and Hiromi's virtuosity.
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In a Trance — This track explores hypnotic grooves with an engaging melodic structure that reveals the depth of emotional expression found throughout the album.
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What Will Be, Will Be — Blending contemplative phrases with intricate harmonies, this piece highlights Hiromi's ability to fuse technical prowess with heartfelt musical storytelling.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

73 /100

Alpine

Higher than 96% of albums we've rated

Hiromi Uehara's 'Spark' excels in composition and craft, showcasing her innovative approach to contemporary jazz.

What we noticed

Each track showcases intricate interplay between the piano and rhythm section, with frequent shifts in dynamics and intensity.
Several pieces incorporate extended improvisation sections, allowing for spontaneous exploration of themes and motifs.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 9/10
Durability 25% of the score: 7/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 3/10

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 mid-tempo exploration
virtuosic improvisation appreciation
immersive in-order listening
thoughtful background engagement

Maybe skip if you

seeking fast-paced excitement
preferring standalone singles

Where this album fits

Career context: Upon releasing Spark in February 2016, Hiromi Uehara had already established herself as a formidable force in the jazz world, following her acclaimed album Alive from 2014. This album marked a continuation of her exploration into avant-garde jazz and showcased her growth as both a pianist and composer.
Stylistic neighbors: Tigran Hamasyan· Robert Glasper· Brad Mehldau