Released 30 years ago
Swingin'
Arturo Sandoval · 1996
71 min · 11 tracks · jazz
Vibrant brass arrangements intertwine with infectious rhythms, showcasing a dynamic blend of jazz and Latin influences.
Top tracks — play these first
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Swingin' — The title track encapsulates the album's lively spirit through its intricate horn arrangements and infectious groove, exemplifying Sandoval's mastery of jazz rhythms.
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Moment's Notice — This piece showcases Sandoval's ability to reinterpret a classic composition with fresh energy, blending bebop elements with Latin flair that highlights his versatility.
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Dizzy's Atmosphere — A tribute to Dizzy Gillespie, this track combines playful melodies with complex harmonies, reflecting Sandoval's deep respect for jazz traditions while adding his own unique touch.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalThe album blends jazz and Latin styles with vibrant arrangements, showcasing Sandoval's technical skill.
What we noticed
- The album features vibrant brass arrangements that frequently shift between intricate melodies and rhythmic improvisation.
- Composition 25% of the score
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8/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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7/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- 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
- infectious rhythms for dancing
- vibrant brass energizing gatherings
- swinging grooves for celebration
- dynamic interplay among musicians
Maybe skip if you
- prefer slow, introspective sounds
- seek minimalist, quiet backgrounds
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in 1996, Swingin' was Arturo Sandoval's fifth album, marking a period of increased visibility following his immigration to the United States in the early '90s. This album came at a time when Sandoval was solidifying his reputation as a prominent figure in both jazz and Latin music, featuring his virtuosic trumpet playing and compositions.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Chick Corea· Paquito D'Rivera· Tito Puente
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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It Never Gets Old
The bridge shifts from an upbeat tempo to a reflective pause, allowing for a moment of introspection amid the energetic instrumentation.
This transition contrasts the song’s earlier exuberance, inviting listeners to engage with deeper emotional themes while maintaining musical momentum.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Moontrane 5:39
- 2 Swingin' 8:16
- 3 Moment's Notice 7:18
- 4 Streets of Desire 7:42
- 5 Real McBop 6:09
- 6 Weirdfun 6:27
- 7 Dizzy's Atmosphere 3:52
- 8 Reflection 7:31
- 9 Woody 7:13
- 10 It Never Gets Old 5:24
- 11 Mack "The Knife" 5:41
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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