Standards & Ballads cover

Standards & Ballads

Wynton Marsalis · 2008

71 min · 14 tracks · blues · classical · jazz

A lush tapestry of classic jazz standards woven together with Marsalis's virtuosic trumpet and emotive phrasing.

Why this album works

The album is significant for its reverence towards classic jazz standards, contributing to the revival of interest in this genre among younger audiences. It received critical acclaim and was praised for its intricate arrangements and Marsalis's expressive playing, further solidifying his status in the jazz community.
Best for
steady pacing for reflective moments lush soundscapes for quiet evenings emotive phrasing invites deep listening
Context
Released in 2008, 'Standards & Ballads' is Wynton Marsalis's exploration of timeless jazz compositions during a phase marked by his dedication to jazz education and performance. By this time, Marsalis had already established himself as a leading figure in jazz, following notable projects like 'From the Plantation to the Penitentiary' in 2007. This album reflects his continuous effort to bridge traditional jazz with contemporary interpretations.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 When It’s Sleepytime Down South 5:12
  • 2 Stardust Standout 4:11
  • 3 Embraceable You Standout 7:16
  • 4 Reflections 6:19
  • 5 After You’ve Gone 5:45
  • 6 The Seductress 2:57
  • 7 My Ideal 6:22
  • 8 Spring Yaoundé 6:02
  • 9 Melancholia 5:11
  • 10 Where or When 2:52
  • 11 I Guess I’ll Hang My Tears Out to Dry 5:57
  • 12 April in Paris Standout 5:07
  • 13 I Can’t Get Started 5:23
  • 14 Flamingo 3:20

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata