What makes Suntan/In Trio by Michel Camilo notable?

The album received critical acclaim for its innovative fusion of styles, earning Camilo a wider audience in the jazz community. It helped solidify his reputation as a leading figure in Latin jazz, contributing to the genre's growing popularity during the 1980s. Released in 1986, Suntan/In Trio marked Michel Camilo's first major album after relocating to the United States. At this point in his career, he was establishing himself as a virtuosic pianist and composer, gaining recognition for blending jazz with traditional Latin influences.

Who is Suntan/In Trio for?

Suntan/In Trio works well if you're into gradual build to energetic climax, intricate piano explorations throughout and for evening gatherings.

How many songs are on Suntan/In Trio?

Suntan/In Trio has 5 tracks, running approximately 48 minutes.

Released 40 years ago

Suntan/In Trio

Michel Camilo · 1986

48 min · 5 tracks · classical music

Dynamic jazz rhythms entwine with vibrant Latin melodies, creating an engaging and intricate listening experience.

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Top tracks — play these first

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We Three — This opening track showcases Camilo's masterful piano technique and sets the tone for the album with its lively interplay between musicians.
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Tombo In 7/4 — The complex time signature and rhythmic variations highlight Camilo's adventurous spirit and ability to blend genres seamlessly.
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(Used To Be A) Cha-cha — This track exemplifies Camilo's skill in incorporating traditional Latin rhythms into contemporary jazz, making it a standout piece on the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

60 /100

Treeline

Higher than 66% of albums we've rated

The album's intricate rhythms and vibrant melodies create a distinctive Latin jazz sound, though it may not have widespread recognition.

What we noticed

The final track, 'Suntan', incorporates a gradual build-up of intensity, culminating in a dynamic finish that contrasts with the more laid-back earlier pieces.

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: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 4/10

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

gradual build to energetic climax
intricate piano explorations throughout
for evening gatherings
engaging rhythms for focused listening

Maybe skip if you

prefer short, standalone tracks
seek instant gratification

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1986, Suntan/In Trio marked Michel Camilo's first major album after relocating to the United States. At this point in his career, he was establishing himself as a virtuosic pianist and composer, gaining recognition for blending jazz with traditional Latin influences.
Stylistic neighbors: Chick Corea· Arturo Sandoval· Brad Mehldau