Spectrum
Muhal Richard Abrams · 2009
46 min · 5 tracks · jazz
An intricate exploration of free jazz, weaving complex rhythms and improvisations into a cohesive sonic tapestry.
Top tracks — play these first
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Romu — The opening track sets the tone for the album with its expansive improvisational sections that challenge traditional jazz forms, illustrating Abrams' mastery over ensemble dynamics.
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Non-Cognitive Aspects of the City I — This track employs unconventional soundscapes and rhythmic patterns, reflecting urban complexities and demonstrating Abrams' ability to blend concept with musical expression.
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Mergertone — The lengthy composition offers an immersive experience, featuring rich textures and layered instrumentations that showcase the collective improvisational skill of the ensemble.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalThe album's intricate structures and improvisational depth make it a notable entry in avant-garde jazz.
What we noticed
- The album features five tracks, with the first three being part of a continuous suite that explores varying themes and motifs.
- Improvisation is a key element, with solo sections emerging organically within the structured compositions.
- 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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8/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- 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
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
- intricate improvisations for deep focus
- extended tracks for patient listening
- exploratory soundscapes in solitude
- dynamic shifts that invite reflection
Maybe skip if you
- seeking quick, catchy tunes
- prefer straightforward song structures
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in 2009, Spectrum marks a significant point in Muhal Richard Abrams' career as it showcases his ongoing evolution as a pivotal figure in avant-garde jazz. This album arrives after decades of influential work, including founding the Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians (AACM) in 1965, positioning him as a mentor to many contemporary jazz musicians.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Anthony Braxton· Sun Ra· Ornette Coleman
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Romu 11:51
- 2 Non-Cognitive Aspects of the City I 6:33
- 3 Non-Cognitive Aspects of the City II 2:03
- 4 Non-Cognitive Aspects of the City III 8:21
- 5 Mergertone 17:15
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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