The Benoit/Freeman Project 2 cover

The Benoit/Freeman Project 2

David Benoit · 2004

46 min · 10 tracks · jazz

An invigorating blend of contemporary jazz and funk, marked by vibrant melodies and intricate rhythms.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Palmetto Park — Opening with an upbeat tempo and inviting melodies, this track sets the tone for the album's vibrant energy and showcases Benoit's skillful piano work.
  • →
    Club Havana — This track features a lively Latin influence, highlighting Benoit's ability to blend different styles while maintaining a cohesive sound throughout the album.
  • →
    Moon Through the Window — With its reflective mood and delicate arrangement, this piece exemplifies Benoit's lyrical approach to composition, offering a contrast to the more energetic tracks.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental
59 /100
Treeline
Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album blends vibrant melodies with intricate rhythms, showcasing strong craftsmanship in composition and performance.

What we noticed

  • The album features a consistent use of syncopated rhythms across all tracks, creating a lively and engaging groove.
  • Each track showcases distinct melodic lines that often intertwine, highlighting the interplay between piano and other instruments.
  • The last three tracks gradually reduce tempo, allowing for a more reflective conclusion to the album.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. 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 rhythmic grooves throughout
  • consistent melodic journey unfold
  • vibrant background for gatherings
  • engaging instrumental conversations emerge

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer instant gratification tracks
  • seek standalone hit singles

Where this album fits

Career context
By 2004, David Benoit was an established figure in contemporary jazz, with The Benoit/Freeman Project 2 serving as his follow-up to the successful collaboration with pianist Russ Freeman. This album reflects his ongoing evolution as a musician, showcasing a refined style that combines jazz elements with pop sensibilities.
Stylistic neighbors
Bob James· David Sanborn· Chick Corea

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Waiting for the Stars to Fall

    The shift from a lilting melody to a more syncopated rhythm creates a moment of tension and release that enhances the song's emotional depth.

    This structural choice underscores a journey within the piece, drawing listeners into the narrative rather than merely presenting a static theme.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Palmetto Park 4:01
  • 2 Via Nueve 5:17
  • 3 Montecito 4:40
  • 4 Club Havana 5:37
  • 5 Two Survivors 5:04
  • 6 Samba 4:48
  • 7 Moon Through the Window 4:47
  • 8 Struttin' 4:42
  • 9 Stiletto Heels 4:12
  • 10 Waiting for the Stars to Fall 3:32

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata