Is Special Edition a good place to start with Jack DeJohnette?

Yes, Special Edition is recommended as a starting point for new Jack DeJohnette listeners. A vibrant blend of free jazz improvisation and structured compositions, deeply rooted in the exploration of rhythm and melody. When Jack DeJohnette released 'Special Edition' in January 1980, he was already an established figure in jazz, known for his work with legends like Miles Davis. This album followed his significant contribution to the avant-garde jazz scene and showcased his ability to seamlessly blend genres, marking a continuation of his artistic evolution after the acclaimed 'New Rags' in 1979.

Who is Special Edition for?

Special Edition works well if you're into dynamic exploration of sound, wave-like pacing throughout album and immersive sonic journey experience.

How many songs are on Special Edition?

Special Edition has 5 tracks, running approximately 39 minutes.

Special Edition

Jack DeJohnette · 1980

39 min · 5 tracks · jazz

A vibrant blend of free jazz improvisation and structured compositions, deeply rooted in the exploration of rhythm and melody.

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Top tracks — play these first

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One for Eric Start here — This opening track features a rich tapestry of melodic lines and intricate rhythms, capturing the essence of DeJohnette's approach to free jazz while honoring his musical influences.
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Zoot Suite — With its dynamic tempo shifts and engaging improvisation, this track exemplifies DeJohnette's mastery in creating an energetic dialogue among musicians.
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Journey to the Twin Planet — This composition stands out for its ethereal quality, merging ambient textures with rhythmic complexity, showcasing DeJohnette's innovative spirit and vision.

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

The album blends structured and improvised elements effectively, showcasing DeJohnette's skill while influencing jazz fusion.

What we noticed

Tracks often shift dynamics abruptly, moving from quiet, introspective sections to vibrant, energetic passages.
The use of various instruments creates a rich textural landscape, with layered melodies that intertwine throughout the tracks.

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 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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

dynamic exploration of sound
wave-like pacing throughout album
immersive sonic journey experience
vibrant rhythmic structures unfold

Maybe skip if you

prefer straightforward song formats
seek instant gratification tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This album significantly impacted the jazz fusion scene and established DeJohnette's wider recognition.
Career context: When Jack DeJohnette released 'Special Edition' in January 1980, he was already an established figure in jazz, known for his work with legends like Miles Davis. This album followed his significant contribution to the avant-garde jazz scene and showcased his ability to seamlessly blend genres, marking a continuation of his artistic evolution after the acclaimed 'New Rags' in 1979.
Stylistic neighbors: Tony Williams· Chick Corea· Brian Blade