Stolen Moments (Mark Murphy album)
Mark Murphy · 1978
36 min · 9 tracks · jazz
A vibrant blend of jazz standards and originals, characterized by intricate vocal phrasing and rich instrumental textures.
Top tracks — play these first
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Stolen Moments — The title track uniquely fuses complex rhythms with poignant melodies, exemplifying Murphy’s ability to interpret jazz standards with fresh emotional depth.
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Waters of March — This track features an evocative interplay between lyrics and melody, highlighting Murphy's skill at conveying intricate narratives through song.
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We'll Be Together Again — Murphy’s interpretation of this classic ballad showcases his distinctive phrasing and emotional resonance, making it a standout moment on the album.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
Murphy's innovative vocal interpretations and the album's varied arrangements contribute to its distinctiveness in jazz.
What we noticed
- The album opens with a title track that features layered vocal harmonies and intricate phrasing, setting a complex tone.
- Several tracks incorporate extended instrumental sections, allowing for improvisation that showcases the musicians' skills.
- The sequencing alternates between upbeat numbers and slower ballads, creating a dynamic flow throughout the record.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
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
- intimate storytelling through vocals
- for cozy evenings
- subtle emotional nuances throughout
- gentle pacing encourages reflection
Maybe skip if you
- seeks high-energy tracks
- prefers standalone singles
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in 1978, Stolen Moments was Mark Murphy's follow-up to his acclaimed album, The Sky Is a Sea. At this point in his career, Murphy was establishing himself as a significant voice in jazz, known for his innovative interpretations and unique style that blended traditional and contemporary elements.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Carmen McRae· Ella Fitzgerald· Sarah Vaughan
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Stolen Moments 5:47
- 2 Again 3:31
- 3 Farmer's Market 2:54
- 4 D.C. Farewell 2:58
- 5 Waters of March 3:44
- 6 Sly 4:14
- 7 We'll Be Together Again 3:40
- 8 Don't be Blue 3:39
- 9 Like a Lover (O Cantador) 5:38
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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