What makes Strong Place by Ingrid Laubrock notable?

Upon its release, 'Strong Place' received critical acclaim for its bold exploration of sound and structure, contributing to Laubrock's standing in the contemporary jazz scene. The album's intricate arrangements and unique style garnered attention from influential music publications, helping to broaden the audience for avant-garde jazz at a time when mainstream interest was shifting. By 2013, Ingrid Laubrock was establishing herself as a prominent voice in avant-garde jazz, building on her earlier works such as 'Cheatre' released in 2010. 'Strong Place' marked her first release under the label Intakt Records, highlighting her growth and experimentation within the genre. This album further solidified her reputation for innovative compositions and collaborations.

Who is Strong Place for?

Strong Place works well if you're into steady pacing for deep focus, vibrant emotional tapestry unfolding and thoughtful background for creativity.

How many songs are on Strong Place?

Strong Place has 8 tracks, running approximately 57 minutes.

Strong Place

Ingrid Laubrock · 2013

57 min · 8 tracks · pop music

A rich tapestry of avant-garde jazz, interwoven with intricate rhythms and spontaneous improvisation that invites deep listening.

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Top tracks — play these first

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An Unfolding — This opening track sets the stage with its expansive soundscapes, showcasing Laubrock's skillful saxophone work against a backdrop of complex harmonies.
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Strong Place (for Emanuella) — Dedicated to a friend, this piece encapsulates emotional depth through its lyrical melodies, reflecting Laubrock's ability to convey personal narratives within abstract structures.
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Count ’Em (for Richard Foreman) — This track pays homage to theater director Richard Foreman, featuring playful yet deliberate rhythmic patterns that mimic theatrical timing and tension.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

65 /100

Treeline

Higher than 88% of albums we've rated

The album showcases intricate compositions and a unique blend of jazz and pop elements.

What we noticed

Several pieces incorporate unconventional instrumentation, adding layers of texture and depth to the sound.
The sequencing moves from more structured compositions to freer improvisations, culminating in a reflective closing track.

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

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 pacing for deep focus
vibrant emotional tapestry unfolding
thoughtful background for creativity
immersive experience with gradual evolution

Maybe skip if you

prefer fast-paced instant gratification
seek standalone tracks only

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This album marked a significant step in Laubrock's recognition within avant-garde jazz.
Career context: By 2013, Ingrid Laubrock was establishing herself as a prominent voice in avant-garde jazz, building on her earlier works such as 'Cheatre' released in 2010. 'Strong Place' marked her first release under the label Intakt Records, highlighting her growth and experimentation within the genre. This album further solidified her reputation for innovative compositions and collaborations.
Stylistic neighbors: Mary Halvorson· Evan Parker· Nels Cline